Women are not props for public stunts. More importantly, they are not clowns meant to entertain the public officials they elected to represent, protect, and serve them.

Bong Suntay serves as an example of misogynistic behavior in public office after making lewd remarks about actress Anne Curtis during the House of Representatives of the Philippines impeachment proceedings against Sara Duterte on March 3. His comments drew widespread criticism for objectifying a woman in the middle of an official congressional hearing.

In response, Curtis condemned the remark and described Suntay as the “poster boy” of a toxic culture that still believes degrading women in public discourse is acceptable. “Misogyny dressed up as a joke is still misogyny,” said Anne Curtis.

The issue, however, lies in the defense offered for Suntay’s remarks. It was argued that his statement was merely an analogy intended to compare his experience with the situation involving Sara Duterte and President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., specifically after Duterte allegedly made a threat against the President.

Nevertheless, such justification fails to address the authentic issue. Using women as examples in a sexualized or degrading manner to illustrate a point reflects a form of misogyny. This remark by the official reduces women to objects of comparison and degrades their dignity, especially within a formal and public institution such as Congress.

People must be awakened to the reality that women are not inferior to men or to anyone else. Women deserve the same respect, dignity, and opportunities as all members of society. In the Philippines, this principle is upheld through Republic Act No. 9710 or the Magna Carta of Women, which protects the human rights of women by eliminating discrimination and guaranteeing equal rights in various aspects of life, including economic, political, and socio-cultural aspects.

Furthermore, no individual, regardless of status or position, even those basking in the highest public offices, should be given a free pass to disrespect women in any form. Public officials, in particular, are expected to uphold the highest standards of professionalism, respect, and accountability. With this, Bong Suntay should be held accountable for his actions, especially considering the absence of clear remorse for his undignified remarks.

As a public servant who has taken an oath to serve the people with integrity, he is bound by Republic Act No. 6713, which mandates that government officials maintain professionalism, respect, and ethical behavior in the performance of their duties. Any conduct that violates these standards should be subject to appropriate punishment under the law.

Anne Curtis is a representation of what a woman should be—one who is not afraid to voice out their values, stand firm on what is right, and does not get handled down by a misogynistic and unethical figure.

Women are people of respect and dignity. And what the world needs right now is a leader who is not self-righteous and egoistic. Women are not meant to entertain those in power. Instead, they are among the citizens whose taxes fund the very officials elected to serve them.