Actress and advocate Jasmin Curtis-Smith has publicly called for the resignation of Bong Suntay following his controversial remarks about her sister, Anne Curtis, during a congressional session.
The issue arose during the House Committee on Justice meeting on March 3, 2026, which tackled impeachment complaints against Vice President Sara Duterte. During the proceedings, Suntay allegedly made inappropriate comments involving Anne Curtis, sparking backlash both online and offline.
In a strongly worded Facebook post, Jasmin emphasized that the issue goes beyond celebrity status. According to her, the incident reflects a larger and more troubling pattern in society.
“This moment is not about one female celebrity,” she wrote. “It is about how ALL WOMEN, regardless of profession, continue to be reduced to bodies in spaces dominated by men in power.”
Jasmin criticized the congressman for publicly narrating his “desire” and imagined scenario about a woman he claimed to have seen — statements that she noted appeared inconsistent. She argued that such remarks reinforce a culture where women are treated as spectacle and objects of fantasy rather than individuals with intellect, agency, and autonomy.
The actress stressed that public office comes with the responsibility to elevate discussions, not degrade them. “The halls of government should be spaces where women are discussed for their contributions, their ideas, and their leadership — not as imagined scenarios,” she stated.
Jasmin also rejected attempts to dismiss the comments as mere honesty or compliments. “We cannot continue excusing this as ‘just being honest’ or ‘just a compliment.’ It is neither. Respect is not complicated,” she added.
Her statement quickly gained traction on social media, with many netizens expressing support for her stand on accountability and respect for women.
In a follow-up post on her Instagram Story, Jasmin directly called for Rep. Suntay’s resignation. She questioned whether the congressman would be comfortable if the same kind of language he used were directed at his own daughter. Her pointed question resonated with many Filipinos who echoed her call for higher standards of conduct among elected officials.
“If we want safer environments for our daughters, nieces, and future leaders, accountability must begin with those elected to represent us,” Jasmin wrote.
The controversy has reignited conversations about sexism in politics and the standards expected from public officials. Advocates argue that leaders must model respectful behavior, especially in formal settings such as congressional hearings.
As discussions continue, the incident highlights the growing demand for accountability in public office and the importance of fostering safer, more respectful spaces for women — not only in entertainment or private sectors, but especially within the country’s highest institutions of governance.g