Comelec orders Ilagan to explain derogatory remarks about women

The Commission on Elections (Comelec) ordered Batangas gubernatorial candidate Jay Ilagan to explain his derogatory remarks about women during a campaign event and in social media posts, issuing a show cause order on Monday.

Ilagan referred to his rival, former Batangas representative and actress Vilma Santos-Recto as 'laos' or outdated, dismissing her support among aging fans and comparing her unfavorably with younger actresses.

The Comelec cited possible violations of Comelec Resolution No. 1116, which prohibits discrimination against women and gender-based harassment, and warned Ilagan to explain his statements within three days or face potential charges for election offenses and disqualification.

Comelec Chairperson George Garcia emphasized the importance of avoiding such remarks and called on all candidates to be tactful and show integrity in their campaigns.

This is the third recent show cause order issued against a local candidate for offensive remarks against women, following those issued to Pasig City congressional candidate Christian Sia and Misamis Oriental Governor Peter Unabia.