COMELEC Issues Show Cause Order to Silang Mayoral Bet Over Alleged Gender-Based Harassment

INTRAMUROS, Manila (Cavite TV) — The Commission on Elections (COMELEC), through its Task Force SAFE (Safeguarding Against Fear and Exclusion in Elections), has issued a show cause order to Atty. Alston Kevin A. Anarna, candidate for municipal mayor of Silang, Cavite, over statements made during a campaign activity that may constitute gender-based harassment and discrimination.

In a three-page order dated April 11, 2025, COMELEC cited alleged remarks made by Anarna on or about March 29, 2025, which were deemed inappropriate and potentially offensive to women and solo parents. A video recording of the utterances, reportedly posted on his campaign’s official Facebook page, was cited as evidence.

The Task Force cited possible violations of Resolution No. 11116, also known as the Anti-Discrimination and Fair Campaigning Guidelines for the May 2025 elections. Specifically, Section 3 of the resolution defines gender-based harassment and identifies it as an election offense under Republic Act No. 11313 or the Safe Spaces Act.

Anarna was quoted making statements such as, “Kanina di ko na mabilang kung ilan ang kumurot sa puwet ko. Meron pa kanina si lola. Alam niyo, first time ko nangyari to sa kampanya. Si lola nilaplap pa ako.” and “Sino dito ang mga solo parents?… lahat ng solo parents bibigyan natin ng libreng asawa.”

COMELEC emphasized that these remarks may fall under the categories of “unwanted and uninvited sexual actions or remarks,” as outlined in the Safe Spaces Act. Examples of gender-based harassment cited in the resolution include catcalling, sexist remarks, persistent sexual jokes, and verbal advances that threaten personal space and safety.

The order directs Anarna to explain, in writing, within three days from receipt of the order, why a complaint for election offense and/or disqualification should not be filed against him. The response must be submitted electronically and by registered mail to the Task Force SAFE office in Palacio del Gobernador, Intramuros, Manila.

Failure to comply, the order warned, would be considered a waiver of Anarna’s right to be heard and may result in the filing of appropriate charges.

The show cause order was signed by Dir. Sonia Bea L. Wee-Lozada, Director IV and Head of Task Force SAFE.

COMELEC reiterated its commitment to maintaining a safe and respectful environment during the election period, free from discrimination, harassment, and intimidation.