IBP probe sought on Topacio’s remarks
As the world marked International Women’s Day on Sunday, Laguna Rep. Ann Matibag called on the Integrated Bar of the Philippines (IBP) to investigate lawyer Ferdinand Topacio’s recent “degrading remarks” against her fellow female lawmaker.
Topacio, in his radio program, said he “desired” Gabriela Rep. Sarah Elago, after the lawmaker defended actress Anne Curtis from lewd remarks.
“We call on the appropriate institutions, including the Integrated Bar of the Philippines, to look into this matter and uphold the standards expected of members of the legal profession,” Matibag, chair of the House committee on women and gender equality, said in a statement.
“I strongly condemn the degrading and misogynistic remarks made by Atty. Ferdinand Topacio against Gabriela Women’s Party Representative Sarah Elago, who is an active member of our Committee,” she added.
Matibag said Topacio’s remarks “reduce a duly elected public official to an object of sexualization” and were “unacceptable and undermine the dignity of women in public service.”
‘Harassment’
Elago came to Curtis’ defense after Quezon City Rep. Bong Suntay admitted to having a “strong surge of desire” toward the actress “in his imagination”—a remark that has since been struck from House records.
In response, Topacio not only defended Suntay but also lashed out at Elago and the actress’ sister who also condemned the remarks.
“He’s a man. Let’s not kid ourselves. Men have desires,” Topacio said.
He doubled down by addressing Jasmine, Curtis’ sister, saying: “And you, Jasmine, why are you posting your pictures in bikini? Isn’t that for you to be desired?”
The lawyer also faced backlash from other lawmakers, including ACT Teachers Rep. Antonio Tinio and Kabataan Rep. Renee Co, who called Topacio’s remark “harassment” and “abuse dressed up in a suit and a law degree.”
Like Matibag, the two lawmakers have urged the IBP to investigate Topacio for his behavior.
‘Heavy price’
Also on Sunday, the International Association of Women in Radio and Television–Philippines (IAWRT) condemned attacks and harassment against women journalists, called for the release of detained community reporter Frenchie Mae Cumpio and denounced misogynistic remarks targeting women in media and politics.
In a statement, IAWRT said it stands in strong solidarity with women who speak truth to power, even when facing attempts to silence them.
“For women in the Philippines and across the globe, the ‘press freedom’ we exercise is often met with a heavy price: judicial harassment, misogynist vitriol, and state-sponsored intimidation,” it said. “Our celebration is not a mere formality; it is an act of defiance.”
IAWRT said it was concerned over Cumpio, a community radio journalist, who has been detained since Feb. 7, 2020.
In Malacañang, President Marcos on Sunday committed to safeguard the rights and welfare of Filipino women and underscored their central role in shaping the nation.
“Rest assured that this administration remains steadfast in its commitment to ensure that every woman is heard, respected, and empowered in our society,” the President said.
He also pledged that the Marcos administration “will continue to open more spaces for women to lead and to recognize their full potential, so that their strength and vision may guide us in building a more just, inclusive, and hopeful [country].” —WITH REPORTS FROM ANDREA GREGORIO AND DEXTER CABALZA
******
Get real-time news updates: inqnews.net/inqviber
