The Commission on Elections (COMELEC) anti-discrimination panel issued a show cause order against Pasig City congressional candidate Atty. Christian "Ian" G. Sia, requiring him to explain why he should not be disqualified over his controversial remarks about single moms during a campaign event.
According to the show cause order released on Friday, COMELEC's Task Force on Safeguarding Against Fear and Exclusion in Elections (TASK FORCE SAFE) directed Sia “to show cause in writing within a non-extendible period of three (3) days from receipt hereof and to explain why a complaint for election offense and/or a petition for disqualification should not be filed against you.”
During his campaign on April 3, 2025, Sia was quoted as saying, "Ito ang ambag ko sa mga solo parent ng Pasig. Minsan sa isang taon, ang mga solo parent na babae na nireregla pa. Nay, malinaw nireregla pa at nalulungkot. Minsan sa isang taon, pwedeng sumiping ho sa akin."
Moreover, COMELEC stated that the remarks could constitute a violation of COMELEC Resolution No. 11116, particularly Section 3 of the Anti-Discrimination and Fair Campaigning Guidelines for the 2025 National and Local Elections and the BARMM Parliamentary Elections.
The order also cited possible gender-based harassment and other forms of election-related misconduct.
If found guilty, Sia could face penalties under Section 13 of Republic Act 9006 and Section 261(e) of the Omnibus Election Code (OEC), as well as other relevant laws and regulations.
Failure to provide a satisfactory response to the show cause order could lead to further legal action, including possible disqualification from the elections.
As of now, Sia has not publicly responded to the order.
However, after facing public backlash for remarks deemed discriminatory and offensive toward solo parents, particularly women, Atty. Sia defended himself and apologized to those affected by his lewd statements.
COMELEC reminded candidates of the importance of responsible campaigning and the need to uphold ethical standards in public discourse.
