Safe Spaces Act

A RECENT congressional hearing meant to address matters of national importance unexpectedly sparked another kind of conversation. During the impeachment proceedings that drew public attention across the country, a remark made by a congressman referencing actress Anne Curtis was widely criticized as inappropriate and risqué.

What should have been a moment of serious legislative deliberation suddenly shifted into a debate about respect, gender sensitivity, and the conduct expected from public officials.

The incident may appear minor compared with the larger political issues discussed in the hearing. Yet moments like this carry symbolic weight. They reveal how language, especially when spoken by those in positions of power, reflects deeper attitudes about women in society.

Public officials do not simply represent themselves. They represent institutions. When they speak in public forums such as congressional hearings, their words carry the authority of the office they hold. That authority demands responsibility, especially when discussions involve references to individuals who are not even part of the proceedings.

Legislative hearings are spaces where laws are debated, policies are examined, and accountability is pursued. The tone and professionalism expected in such spaces should reflect the seriousness of governance. When the conversation shifts toward comments that appear to sexualize or trivialize women, it distracts from the real issues at stake and undermines the dignity of the institution.

The controversy surrounding the remark about Anne Curtis sparked immediate reactions from both the public and women’s rights advocates. Many expressed concern that such statements reinforce a culture where women are casually objectified in public discourse. Others argued that the remark was meant humorously and should not be taken too seriously.

But humor, especially in political spaces, must be handled with care. What some may consider harmless banter can reinforce harmful stereotypes or normalize disrespect toward women. Language shapes culture, and culture shapes behavior.

A broader conversation about respect

This controversy arrives at a particularly meaningful time. March is recognized in the Philippines as National Women’s Month. The celebration honors the contributions of women in society while also highlighting the continuing struggle for gender equality and respect.

In this context, the issue is no longer about one remark or one public figure. It becomes part of a larger conversation about how women are treated in public spaces, including the halls of power.

The Philippines has long prided itself on being a country where women play significant roles in politics, business, education, and culture. The nation has produced female presidents, leaders in government, and influential voices across sectors. Yet the persistence of casual sexism reminds us that representation alone does not guarantee respect.

Gender equality requires constant reinforcement through policy, education, and everyday conduct.

The legal framework protecting women

The Philippines has established strong legal foundations that protect women from harassment and discrimination. Republic Act No. 11313, also known as the Safe Spaces Act or the Bawal Bastos Law, explicitly prohibits gender-based harassment in public spaces, workplaces, educational institutions, and online environments. The law recognizes that sexist remarks, sexual comments, and unwanted verbal conduct can create hostile environments and undermine dignity.

Although the Safe Spaces Act is often discussed in the context of street harassment, its principles apply broadly to public discourse. The law emphasizes that respect and professionalism must guide interactions in shared spaces.

Another important legal framework is Republic Act No. 9710, also known as the Magna Carta of Women. This landmark law affirms the state’s commitment to eliminating discrimination against women and ensuring gender equality in all areas of society, including governance. It mandates that government institutions uphold gender sensitivity and promote respectful representation of women.

Together, these laws reflect a national commitment to building a society where women are treated with dignity, fairness, and equality.

Why accountability matters

Holding public officials accountable for their language is not about censorship or hypersensitivity. It is about recognizing that leadership carries influence. When leaders demonstrate respect, they set a standard for society. When they speak carelessly, they risk normalizing disrespect.

Accountability also strengthens institutions. When citizens call attention to inappropriate remarks, they signal that public service must meet higher ethical expectations. This is not an attack on individuals but a reminder that public trust must be protected.

Criticism, when expressed constructively, can serve as an opportunity for reflection and improvement.

The role of women in public narratives

The controversy also raises an important question about how women are portrayed in public narratives. When women become the subject of casual jokes or suggestive remarks in political spaces, it reinforces a pattern where women’s identities are reduced to appearance rather than achievements.

Anne Curtis herself is not merely a celebrity figure. She is also a host, entrepreneur, advocate, and public personality who has contributed significantly to the entertainment industry and various charitable causes. Reducing any woman to a sexualized reference in a political setting diminishes the complexity of her identity and accomplishments.

Women deserve to be discussed in ways that reflect their contributions, not in ways that trivialize them.

Women’s Month as a moment of reflection

National Women’s Month is more than a symbolic celebration. It is an opportunity to evaluate how far society has come and how much work remains to be done.

Incidents like this remind us that progress toward gender equality is not always linear. Even in spaces where laws and policies exist to protect women, cultural attitudes can still lag behind.

The goal is not to create a culture of fear where public officials hesitate to speak. The goal is to cultivate awareness that language carries impact. Respectful communication is not a restriction on freedom of expression. It is a sign of maturity and professionalism.

Moving forward with responsibility

What should happen after controversies like this one fade from headlines?

First, institutions must continue promoting gender sensitivity training among public officials and government employees. Awareness programs can help leaders understand how seemingly harmless remarks may reinforce broader patterns of discrimination.

Second, the public must remain vigilant but fair. Constructive criticism should encourage accountability while also allowing space for learning and correction.

Finally, society must continue reinforcing the values embedded in laws like the Safe Spaces Act and the Magna Carta of Women. These laws exist not only to punish misconduct but to guide behavior toward a culture of respect.

Public institutions, especially legislative bodies, are spaces where national values are displayed. When those spaces speak carelessly, they weaken the respect they seek to command. When they speak responsibly, they strengthen public trust.

The controversy involving remarks about Anne Curtis may eventually fade from public attention. But the conversation it sparked should remain. It reminds us that respect is not optional, especially in spaces where power and influence converge.

As Women’s Month continues, perhaps the most meaningful tribute to Filipino women is not merely celebration but commitment. Commitment to language that uplifts rather than diminishes. Commitment to leadership that models respect. Commitment to a society where women are not only represented, but truly valued.

Because when our spaces speak with dignity, everyone listens.

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Kethelle I. Sajonia is a college instructor at the University of Southeastern Philippines, Mintal Campus. She is currently in the final phase of her Doctor of Communication degree at the University of the Philippines. Her research interests include inclusivity, education, communication, and social development. She actively engages in scholarly research and community-based initiatives that advocate for inclusive and transformative communication practices.