The Commission on Human Rights (CHR) has warned against red-tagging and the airing of sexist remarks during the campaigns for the 2025 elections as it urged the Commission on Elections (Comelec) to enforce strictly the rules on election offenses.

In a statement, the commission said: "The CHR expresses grave concern over the rising number of electoral offenses, particularly incidents of red-tagging and a recent case involving a congressional candidate making sexist remarks during a campaign event."

The CHR referred to the "sexist remark" reportedly aired by Pasig City congressional candidate Christian 'Ian" Sia who allegedly offered single mothers to sleep with him so they would feel less lonely.

While said as a joke, Sia's comment earned the ire of several individuals and prompted the CHR to raise alarm for being demeaning to women.

"In this light, the CHR reiterates its call against practices that demean, objectify, or use women and their bodies as objects of entertainment or tools for political mudslinging during campaign activities," the CHR said.

At the same time, the CHR expressed alarm over the cases of reported red-tagging, which have now involved the use of deepfakes (digitally altered video) to spread disinformation, linking certain candidates and groups to the New People’s Army.

It said that reports have captured sample photos of the candidates’ tarpaulins being posted in public which include messages against progressive and activist groups.

"The CHR strongly reminds the public, political candidates, and incumbent officials that red-tagging endangers a person’s rights to life, liberty, and security. Such acts undermine individual dignity and erode the very pillars of democratic engagement," it stressed.

The Commission has called on relevant authorities, particularly the Comelec, to take swift and appropriate action in investigating these cases. In doing so, the CHR said they will be reinforcing the importance of upholding human rights, gender sensitivity, and ethical conduct in political campaigns.

"All such efforts must strictly observe due process while safeguarding free speech and the democratic rights of online users," it, however, cautioned.

The CHR reminded both the public and the candidates to ensure that electoral discourse remains inclusive, respectful, and free from discrimination, misogyny, and hate.

"Ultimately, Filipinos deserve a campaign environment that fosters informed, meaningful, and respectful conversations—allowing voters to choose their leaders wisely and freely," it stressed.