By Mark Vincent A. Durano

Far Eastern University Central Student Organization (FEUCSO) condemned recent attacks on women, such as nurses and single mothers, made by candidates in the 2025 National and Local Elections.

In a statement released last April 15, FEUCSO emphasized the disrupting effects of disrespect in the society. 

“Lahat ng pambabastos ay may epekto, at ang epekto nito ay mas malalim kaysa sa iniisip ng marami— binubura nito ang dignidad, pinapanday ang kultura ng tahimik na pagpayag at tinatanggal ang espasyo para sa tunay na representasyon (All kinds of disrespect have an effect, and this effect is deeper than what many think— it disregards dignity, forges the culture of silence that affirms and removes spaces for genuine representation),” it read.

The organization linked the attacks on women as patriarchal harassment, especially in the context of electoral campaigns.

They also questioned how a candidate can develop policies if they have already made discriminatory remarks and abuse platforms as early as campaign periods.

Additionally, FEUCSO urged electing a leader with accountability, integrity, and ability to forward equality.

“Mahalaga ring isulong natin mula sa mga lider ng bansa ang kampanyang nagtataas sa mga kababaihan, upang ipakita na hindi natin tinatanggap ang diskriminasyon o pang-aabuso sa mga kababaihan (It is also important for leaders to forward a campaign that uplifts women to show that discrimination or abuse against women is not accepted),” the statement added.

FEUCSO also asserted that celebrating International Women’s Month does not end in March, further calling for analysis, action, and resistance amid harassment, abuse, and discrimination against women.

Women in elections

Recently, the Commission on Elections gave separate show cause orders for three local candidates to explain their side following remarks against women, as a threat for disqualification.

COMELEC Resolution No. 11116 Section 3 provides that “any person who, directly or indirectly, commits acts of bullying… shall be liable for an election offense pursuant to Section 13 of RA 9006 and Section 261 (e) of the OEC and other pertinent laws, rules and regulations.”

This includes labeling, discrimination against women, and gender-based discrimination.

Pasig congressional candidate Ian Sia made a ‘misogynistic’ remark during a campaign sortie last April 2, stating single mothers who still menstruate can sleep with him once a year.

This prompted Solo Parents Party-list to file a complaint against Sia before the Commission on Elections (COMELEC) last April 4.

The COMELEC Task Force Safeguarding Against Fear and Exclusion in Elections or SAFE then filed a motu propio petition against the congressional candidate, seeking Sia’s disqualification from the electoral race and the suspension of his proclamation.

Additionally, Misamis Oriental gubernatorial candidate and incumbent Gov. Peter Unabia said that only “beautiful” women are qualified for their nursing scholarship.

Batangas gubernatorial candidate and incumbent Mataasnakahoy Vice Mayor Jay Ilagan also ridiculed gubernatorial opponent Vilma Santos for her age and “old” fanbase.

Gabriela Women’s Party, through Rep. Arlene Brosas, also filed the Bawal Bastos sa Eleksyon Bill which seeks to add discriminatory and misogynistic remarks as grounds for disqualification of candidates.

"This bill is not only a legal measure but a statement that women's dignity is non-negotiable in our political landscape... We are sending a clear message that sexist remarks, objectification, and discriminatory behavior have no place in democratic discourse,” Brosas stated.

In 2022, only 24 percent of the elected positions are occupied by women.

Meanwhile, only 12 out of 63 senatorial candidates are women this 2025, six of which are under the Makabayan Coalition.

(Photo courtesy of FEUCSO)