Sexism Has No Place in Law or Congress

(Editor’s Note: Atty. Hue Jyro Go is Senior Partner at the Go & De Guzman Law Offices. He also previously served as the Chief of Staff, Presidential Task Force on Media Security, Office of the President. He would be joining Pinoy Exposé as one of our regular columnists).

IN A profession founded on justice, equality, and the rule of law, it is both alarming and disheartening when one of its members brazenly violates these very principles.

Atty. Christian G. Sia, founding partner of a prominent law firm in Pasig, is currently facing public condemnation after making remarks widely regarded as sexist and dehumanizing—made even more disturbing by his current campaign for a congressional seat in the lone district of Pasig.

During a recent political caucus, Sia declared: “Minsan sa isang taon, ang mga solo parent na babae na nireregla pa at nalulungkot, minsan sa isang taon, pwede sumiping ho sa akin. ‘Yun hong interesado, magpalista na po rito sa gilid.”

Such a remark is not merely inappropriate—it is reprehensible. It reduces solo mothers to objects of sexual gratification, stripping them of their dignity in one fell swoop. Delivered casually in a public setting, it reveals a disturbing mindset that has no place in the legal profession—and even less in public service.

Sia’s statement is not a lapse in judgment but a gross failure of character. Beyond the possible electoral violations involving discrimination against women, his conduct may constitute multiple violations of the Code of Professional Responsibility and Accountability (CPRA). As an officer of the Court, his actions are subject to the following:

1. Canon II, Section 1: Proper Conduct: “A lawyer shall not engage in unlawful, dishonest, immoral, or deceitful conduct.”
2. Canon II, Section 2: Dignified Conduct: “…A lawyer shall not engage in conduct that adversely reflects on one’s fitness to practice law, nor behave in a scandalous manner… to the discredit of the legal profession.”
3. Canon II, Section 3: Safe Environment; avoid all forms of abuse or harassment: “A lawyer shall not create or promote an unsafe environment… A lawyer is also prohibited from engaging in any gender-based harassment or discrimination.”

The sexually suggestive and immoral remark undermines the integrity of the legal profession, particularly when made in a public and political forum. Lawyers must hold themselves to higher standards. When members of the Bar seek public office, they carry the weight not just of personal ambition but of the legal profession’s credibility.

Far from being a ‘harmless’ joke, Sia’s comment is both demeaning and offensive—a disgrace to the legal and political communities. It can be construed as a form of sexual harassment, contributing to a hostile environment, especially for solo parents and women.

By targeting solo parents, Sia perpetuates gender-based discrimination and reinforces harmful stereotypes, further eroding the principles of propriety and dignity that members of the Bar are sworn to uphold.

Misogynistic remarks, disguised as humor, are no laughing matter. They reinforce harmful norms and deter women—especially those from marginalized groups—from participating in legal and political processes.

At a time when we are working to create more inclusive, respectful spaces in both the legal and political arenas, Atty. Sia’s remarks are a stark reminder of how much work remains.