Quezon City Rep. Bong Suntay faced criticism from colleagues after making controversial remarks about actress Anne Curtis during a House committee hearing, an incident that unfolded as the country observes Women’s Month.
The remarks were made during the House committee on justice hearing on impeachment complaints against Vice President Sara Duterte, where Suntay argued that mere thoughts or imagination cannot be penalized by law. His example referencing the actress immediately drew objections from lawmakers who said the comments were inappropriate in a formal congressional proceeding.
Controversial Analogy Sparks Heated Debate
Suntay said he once saw the actress in a mall and imagined scenarios involving her, using the example to support his argument that unenforceable thoughts or statements should not be subject to legal sanctions. However, several lawmakers said the analogy was unnecessary and crossed the line, especially given the observance of Women’s Month, which highlights gender sensitivity and respect.
Lawmakers Push to Remove Remarks From Records
San Juan Rep. Ysabel Maria Zamora moved to have the statements deleted from the official record, saying public officials should maintain professionalism when discussing women. Manila Rep. Bienvenido Abante Jr. backed the motion, stressing that Women’s Month should encourage responsible speech and respect in public institutions. The committee chair later said that if members felt offended, it meant acceptable boundaries had been crossed.
Public Apology Issued
Following the backlash, the lawmaker issued a public apology, saying, “I want to apologize to those people but that was never the intention…but I stand by the analogy that I made.” He reiterated that his statement was meant to illustrate a legal argument and not to offend anyone.
The incident continues to spark discussion on respect, professionalism, and gender sensitivity in public discourse as Women’s Month continues.
