House leader praises Comelec for show cause orders on lewd remarks

A House leader on Thursday praised the Commission on Elections' decision to issue show cause orders to candidates accused of making lewd or sexist remarks, calling it a 'bold step' toward upholding civility in political discourse.

Rep. Zia Alonto Adiong emphasized that while negative campaigning is allowed by law, it must not cross into bigotry or misogyny and should focus on platforms rather than personal attacks.

The Comelec has already issued show cause orders to several candidates, including Davao de Oro Rep. Ruwel Peter Gonzaga and Misamis Oriental Governor Peter Unabia.

Adiong stressed the importance of politicians maintaining decency in public discourses as role models for their communities and noted that there are existing mechanisms in place but remains open to discussing amendments to election laws.

Gabriela Rep. Arlene Brosas filed a bill seeking to disqualify candidates who make misogynistic or discriminatory remarks during campaigns, proposing amendments to Sections 68 and 261 of the Omnibus Election Code.

The bill aims to classify misogynistic and gender-based harassment as both an election offense and a ground for disqualification.