By Myris Lee
The Philippine Commission on Women (PCW) condemned and expressed disappointment over campaign rallies’ use of women for provocative numbers and degrading comedic stunts to entertain rally audiences.
The statement was issued amid videos showing the commodification or objectification of women in sorties, including an event where a woman in “scanty clothes dancing on stage in a sensual production number” and a candidate pretending to kiss a performer.
“Instead of treating women with dignity and respect, candidates view and see Juanas as mere objects, “sex symbols”, ways to attract attention and audience, resulting to their dehumanization and further discrimination,” it stated.
“Granted that the women ‘consented’ to the acts, this does not erase the fact that these manifest how women are being considered as second-class citizens. Thus, they subject women to submission and control and deem them as inferior beings they can easily touch, look at with lustful gaze, and poke fun at,” it added.
The PCW called on candidates to be respectful and gender-sensitive as they continue with their activities, noting that their treatment of women reflects their capacity on how their issues will be resolved when they are elected.
The commission further urged candidates to use their platform to promote gender equality and women empowerment, as it reminded that “women must not be portrayed in a discriminatory and derogatory manner” in pursuant to the Magna Carta of Women.
“As we strive to change mindsets and raise consciousness on gender equality, we must instead depict women as capable, dignified and talented beings, leaders, and changemakers. We hope that election season and beyond, candidates can show respect for women and the laws protecting them,” the PCW said. – ag
