Comelec orders lawyer Ian Sia to explain derogatory remarks about single mothers

The Commission on Elections (Comelec) issued a show cause order against lawyer Christian 'Ian' Sia, who is running for Pasig lone district representative, on Friday, April 4, 2025.

Sia made derogatory remarks about single mothers during a campaign event the previous day, stating he was willing to sleep with them if elected, and instructed interested parties to register for his offer.

Comelec's Task Force SAFE cited Sia's comments as a possible violation under Section 3 of Comelec Resolution No. 1116, which prohibits discrimination against women and gender-based harassment.

Sia has three days to explain why a complaint for election offense or a petition for disqualification should not be filed against him.

Comelec Chairman George Garcia expressed disappointment over Sia's joke, calling it 'unfair' to women and stressing the importance of responsible campaigning.

Social Welfare Secretary Rex Gatchalian condemned jokes targeting single parents, emphasizing that such behavior does not reflect well on candidates who seek public office.