The Commission on Human Rights (CHR) strongly condemns the inappropriate remarks made by Quezon City Fourth District Representative Jesus Manuel Suntay toward an actress during a recent House hearing. Such conduct has no place in official proceedings where public trust, professionalism, and accountability must prevail. The incident is particularly troubling as it occurred at the start of Women’s Month, a time meant to affirm the dignity, rights, and contributions of women.
Rep. Suntay’s manifestation during the House Committee on Justice hearing on 03 March 2026 cannot be dismissed as a harmless figure of speech. It constituted a public act of sexual objectification that reduced a woman to the subject of male fantasy within a formal government proceeding.[1] While the Commission acknowledges the Committee’s decision to strike the remark from the official record, this does not erase the harm caused nor the standards expected of public officials.
While we note Rep. Suntay’s apology and his clarification that no malice was intended, the concerns raised by the public and women’s rights advocates cannot be dismissed as mere “sensitivities.” Regardless of intent, remarks that sexualize or demean women undermine the country’s hard-earned progress toward gender equality and reinforce attitudes that trivialize harassment and discrimination.
If left unaddressed, such conduct risks fostering an unsafe atmosphere within the halls of Congress where unwanted, uninvited, and sexualized remarks toward women may be casually made or tolerated.
This incident also reflects a broader challenge faced by women in public and professional spaces. When sexist remarks are normalized or dismissed as jokes or metaphors, they reinforce attitudes that diminish women’s dignity and undermine ongoing efforts to build institutions that are safe, respectful, and inclusive.
The Commission reiterates that Philippine laws already establish clear standards against gender-based misconduct. The Magna Carta of Women (RA 9710) and the Safe Spaces Act (RA 11313) require institutions to promote gender sensitivity and ensure protection and remedies for victims of harassment and discrimination. The Code of Conduct and Ethical Standards for Public Officials and Employees (RA 6713) likewise requires public officials to uphold professionalism, integrity, and respect in public service.
Beyond symbolic corrective measures, the Commission calls on Congress to reinforce its code of conduct and ensure the consistent application of gender-sensitive standards and language within its proceedings. As one of the country’s highest democratic institutions, Congress must set the example in upholding respect for women and zero tolerance for sexist remarks, sexual objectification, or other forms of discrimination.
The Commission also commends the members of the House Committee on Justice who stood their ground and reminded Rep. Suntay that congressional proceedings must never become a venue for remarks that trivialize violence, harassment, or discrimination against women. Upholding respect and dignity within legislative spaces is essential to maintaining public trust.
The Commission on Human Rights calls on all public officials to exercise discernment, responsibility, and respect in both speech and conduct. Public office demands a higher standard. One that reflects a genuine commitment to equality and to the dignity and rights of every person.
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[1] House of Representatives. (2026, March 3). Committee on Justice [Video]. YouTube. https://youtu.be/YwoECGZ5YHg?t=17682, 04:54:46-05:02:44