Pasig congressional candidate Christian “Ian” Sia has criticized the Commission on Elections (Comelec) Second Division’s decision to disqualify him from the 2025 elections, arguing that the ruling violated his right to due process.
In a statement, Sia expressed his disappointment, saying, “Nabasa ko po ‘yung decision, ginamit pong dahilan ‘yung diumano’y violation ng Safe Spaces Act para i-disqualify po ako. Una po, hindi ko po natanggap ‘yung kopya ng petition na dinesisyunan, therefore I was not given procedural due process.”
The Comelec Second Division had earlier ruled to disqualify Sia following his controversial remarks targeting single mothers during a campaign event. The decision, which was released on Thursday, also stated that if Sia wins the congressional race, his proclamation would be suspended until the final resolution of his disqualification case.
Sia, however, argued that the Comelec’s decision was flawed, pointing out that other high-profile figures with pending cases continue to serve in their positions. He mentioned detained Pastor Apollo Quiboloy and Senator Ronald “Bato” Dela Rosa as examples.
“Mali po ang desisyon and COMELEC knows it kaya may colatilla ang desisyon nila na if I win they will suspend the proclamation until the disqualification case is finally resolved,” he added.
The Comelec’s ruling followed two show cause orders (SCO) issued against Sia over his discriminatory remarks. The first was for his comments about single mothers, suggesting they could sleep with him once a year, which sparked public outrage. A second SCO was issued after Sia made further misogynistic remarks against one of his female staff during another campaign sortie.
The poll body maintained that Sia’s actions violated the Safe Spaces Act, which protects individuals from gender-based harassment and discrimination. The decision emphasized that his comments were inconsistent with ethical conduct expected of a public official.
