Bataan 1st district Rep. Geraldine Roman (PPAB)

Bataan 1st district Rep. Geraldine Roman has joined the growing list of personalities who have slammed aspiring Pasig City congressman Christian Sia over his recent joke that has been found to be demeaning toward single mothers and women in general.

"The comments made by Atty. Ian Sia during his campaign event are not just disturbing, but also a clear reminder of why we need stronger accountability for public officials who exhibit misogynistic behavior," Roman said in a Facebook post on Sunday night, April 6.

"His remarks, which objectified solo mothers and belittled their struggles, are completely unacceptable," she said of the lawyer.

In a recorded speech that has since gone viral online, Sia was caught during one of his campaign sorties saying: “Para sa mga solo parent ng Pasig, minsan sa isang taon ang mga solo parent na babae na nireregla pa—‘Nay malinaw nireregla pa—at nalulungkot, minsan sa isang taon pwedeng sumiping ho sa akin. ‘Yun hong interesado magpalista na sa mesa sa gilid.”

(To the solo parents of Pasig, to those solo mothers who still get their period once a year--I want to clarify, those with their period--and who get sad, once a year they can have sex with me. Those who are interested can list up on that table on the side.)

Sia has since apologized for his remarks, but blamed the uploader of the video for his current woes.

"Misogyny, homophobia, and all forms of gender-based harassment should never be tolerated, especially from someone who is seeking to serve and represent the people," said Roman, a transgender woman.

"Public officials should be held to the highest standards of conduct, as they have the responsibility to lead by example and promote an environment of respect and inclusivity," she reckoned.

Roman says the incident involving Sia highlights the urgent need for the amendments the House are pushing to strengthen the Safe Spaces Act.

"On behalf of the Committee on Women and Gender Equality, we have proposed amendments that will impose stricter penalties for public figures who engage in misogynistic, homophobic, or discriminatory behavior. This includes higher fines, suspension, and even disqualification from office for repeat offenders," she said.

The Bataan lawmaker says the passage of these amendments is "more relevant and urgent than ever".

"We need public officials who will lead by example and promote a culture of respect and inclusivity. We must continue to push for stronger, more effective policies that protect all Filipinos, regardless of gender, status, or background," Roman further said.