Moros decry racist slur by governor
CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY—Muslims who have long regarded this city and Misamis Oriental as their other home called out Gov. Peter Unabia for his campaign speech last week characterizing them as potential saboteurs in the province.
Unabia told a crowd in Balingoan town that their localities risked being dominated by Maranaos if his slate and local allies are defeated in the May 12 midterm elections.
He said this could pave the way for politicians from the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao to take over and cause security instability.
His remarks were widely viewed as a veiled attack against the opponent of his son, Christian, who is seeking reelection as congressman. Christian’s challenger is married to a Maranao politician.
Drieza Lininding, chair of the Moro Consensus Group, said Unabia’s statements “demonized not only the Meranaw community but also Islam.”
He noted that Meranaw, as the name for the Maranao people is also spelled, have considered Cagayan de Oro and Misamis Oriental their second home because of their longstanding relations with the locals rooted in history.
“Misamis Oriental does not deserve a warmongering leader like Governor Unabia,” Lininding said.
Ground for disqualification
But Unabia also apologized on Saturday, saying, “It was never our intention to cause offense or to undermine the rich history, identity and dignity of the Maranao people.”
Unabia also came under fire for his misogynist remarks about “ugly” nurses.
Women’s alliance Gabriela on Sunday called on the Commission on Elections (Comelec) to issue stricter guidelines relating to misogyny.
The poll body’s Resolution No. 11116 prescribes antidiscrimination and fair campaigning guidelines.
The Comelec earlier issued a show-cause order against Pasig City congressional candidate Christian Sia, for his remarks disparaging single mothers, and is also expected to summon Unabia. —WITH REPORTS FROM RYAN D. ROSAURO AND GILLIAN VILLANUEVA
