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Manila Bulletin devider Philippines devider Metro Manila devider Public hearing set for Manila councilor's sexual harassment allegations

Public hearing set for Manila councilor's sexual harassment allegations

Published Oct 15, 2025 02:55 pm
Manila Vice Mayor Chi Atienza. (Photo from Office of the Vice Mayor of Manila)
Manila Vice Mayor Chi Atienza. (Photo from Office of the Vice Mayor of Manila)

Manila Vice Mayor Chi Atienza announced that the city council is set to hold a public hearing on Thursday, Oct. 16, to investigate the sexual harassment allegations of a councilor against her colleague which were raised during the council's session last Oct. 9.

Manila 4th District Councilor Eunice Castro chastised 4th District Councilor Ryan Ponce for his alleged repeated sexual innuendos to her on multiple occasions.

Following Castro's revelations, Ponce apologized to her, saying that he did not mean to cause her harm or offend her.

In response, Atienza, who also serves as the city council's presiding officer, requested the Committee on Ethics led by Hon. Atty. Jaybee Hizon to hold the public hearing of the case to ensure a fair, impartial, and transparent investigation on the matter and to reinforce the principle of public accountability as enshrined in Article XI of the 1987 Constitution.

"This is to ensure that both parties are given their right to due process and to allow wheels of justice to prevail, in accordance with the Council’s Internal Rules of Procedure and applicable laws," she explained, urging the city council members to uphold the highest standards of professionalism and ensure the strict observance of due process in all its proceedings.

"In light of what transpired last Thursday, I trust that everyone has taken the time to review the memorandum I issued to the 13th Council of Manila, reminding all members of the strict obligation to uphold professionalism and to refrain from engaging in any form of sexual banter or innuendo during Council proceedings," the vice mayor said in her speech of manifestation.

"Let us maintain the highest level of respect and decorum inside and outside of this chamber," she added.

Atienza stressed the city council does not tolerate any form of harassment or inappropriate behavior, either inside or outside the session hall, noting that every public servant must be held to the highest standards of respect and integrity.

Attendees of the public hearing are also reminded to observe the sub judice rule, with the city council requesting them to refrain from taking photos, videos, or audio recordings of the proceedings to maintain its integrity.

"I call on everyone, especially our friends in the media, to allow the process to take its course. Let us respect the rights and dignity of both the complainant and the respondent. These are serious allegations, and it would be unfair to pass judgment without a proper and impartial investigation," Atienza said.

“We are here as public servants, not as politicians. The City of Manila has faced many challenges before, and we have always overcome them by standing on the side of truth and good governance. This is no different,” the vice mayor stressed.

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Chi atienza manila city council manila city sexual harassment councilor metro news
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