12/03/2026
๐๐๐๐ข๐๐ข๐๐ฅ ๐๐ญ๐๐ญ๐๐ฆ๐๐ง๐ญ ๐จ๐ง ๐๐๐ฑ๐ข๐ฌ๐ญ ๐๐๐ฆ๐๐ซ๐ค๐ฌ ๐๐ง๐ ๐๐จ๐ฆ๐๐งโ๐ฌ ๐๐ข๐ ๐ง๐ข๐ญ๐ฒ
Womenโs empowerment promotes equality, dignity, and respect for women in all spaces of society, recognizing their rights, voices, and contributions. Sexist and degrading remarks about women, whether in private group chats or public proceedings, must not be normalized. The recent issue in our university, where a leaked group chat revealed misogynistic and objectifying comments about women, shows how such attitudes persist even in spaces meant to foster respect. Accountability should not depend on being exposed; individuals must take responsibility for their words and recognize the harm they cause.
This concern is also reflected in broader public incidents, such as the March 3, 2026 House Committee on Justice hearing, where inappropriate remarks about an actress were made during discussions on impeachment complaints. Statements that objectify or trivialize women are unacceptable, especially from public officials who have a duty to uphold professionalism and respect in democratic institutions.
This incident is particularly concerning as it occurred at the start of National Womenโs Month, a time meant to recognize the contributions of women while reaffirming the responsibility to challenge discrimination, harassment, and gender-based violence. Women in the Philippines and around the world continue to face alarming levels of harassment and violence, with global research showing that 1 in 3 women have experienced physical or sexual violence in their lifetime.
In light of these concerns, the University Student Government strongly condemns sexist and degrading remarks in any form and reiterates its commitment to fostering a culture of womenโs empowerment, accountability, and respectful discourse. As a Lasallian community, we are called to uphold the dignity, safety, and empowerment of every woman in our midst and ensure that our university remains a space of respect, equity, and mutual care.
