Gabriela Party-list Rep. Arlene Brosas (left),  lawyer Christian “Ian” Sia (Facebook)

Senatorial candidate Gabriela Party-list Rep. Arlene Brosas has commended the Commission on Elections (Comelec) for taking decisive action against "bastos" or disrespectful candidates in the May 12 mid-term polls.

This, after Comelec filed a motu proprio petition for disqualification against Pasig City congressional candidate lawyer Christian “Ian” Sia over his sexist and misogynistic remarks targeting single mothers.

Comelec carried out this action through its Task Force SAFE.

“Finally, the [Comelec] is drawing the line by responding to the clamor of women, especially solo parents, who were gravely offended and disrespected by Atty. Sia’s sexist and discriminatory statements," Brosas said.

"Instead of issuing a sincere apology, Sia showed no remorse and even doubled down, hiding behind ‘freedom of speech’ in a desperate attempt to brush off the serious harm caused by his remarks,” noted the Makabayan Senate slate member.

“This must set a precedent that the commission has both the mandate and the responsibility to disqualify candidates who peddle abusive, demeaning, and discriminatory rhetoric against women during the campaign period,” she added.

Meanwhile, Gabriela Party-list first nominee Sarah Elago said they expect more cases to 

be filed against other candidates who have likewise made sexist and misogynistic statements.

“Other candidates who disrespect women must be held to the same standard. Let this serve as a clear warning that sexism has no place in public office,” said Elago.

Elago emphasized that Filipino women, especially solo parents, deserve leaders who recognize their rights and support their daily struggles, not those who mock or belittle their experiences for cheap laughs or political gain. 

Elago is a former Kabataan Party-list congresswoman.