Solo Parents Party-list files raps against Pasig bet for lewd joke

Metro Manila, Philippines - Solo Parents Party-list filed an election offense case against Pasig congressional bet Christian “Ian” Sia on Saturday over his viral campaign remarks, in which he joked about offering to sleep with single mothers.

In a post published by the Commission on Elections (Comelec), the group said Sia’s joke is a possible violation of the Fair Elections Act or Republic Act 9006.

“This was not just a lapse in judgement. It constitutes an election offense that disrespects not only solo parents, but the dignity of the public office,” Solo Parents Party-list nominee Roselle Teodosio said in the complaint.

This follows Comelec’s issued show cause order against Sia, giving the CPA lawyer candidate three days to explain why he should not face an election offense case or disqualification.

Sia later on publicly apologized and took sole responsibility for his controversial remark, asking critics to not drag other members of the Team Kaya This slate in the issue.

Meanwhile, the Philippine Commission on Women said Sia’s apology may not be enough and his actions reveal a bigger issue on election campaigns.

“Justifying his remarks as an effort to ‘liven up the crowd’ exposes a deeper issue in political discourse,” the organization said in a statement.

As of Friday afternoon, the congressional bet said he has yet to receive a copy of Comelec’s show cause order and decided not to discuss the issue publicly.