Lawyer Ferdinand Topacio has come under fire for comments about actress Anne Curtis, her sister Jasmine, and Gabriela Partylist Rep. Sarah Elago. The controversy began after Topacio defended Quezon City Rep. Bong Suntay, who had admitted during a congressional hearing that he felt aroused by Anne.
Photo: Jasmine Curtis Smith, Sarah Elago
On his radio program over dwIZ, Topacio criticized Curtis and Elago for calling out Suntay, saying, “He’s a man. Let’s not kid ourselves. Men have desires.”
Topacio also made personal remarks, saying he had “desired” Elago during her time as a representative for the Kabataan party list. Regarding Jasmine Curtis, he addressed her in a manner many found inappropriate.
“Ikaw Jasmine, bakit ka nagpo-post ng bikini pictures mo sa social media, sa mga pahayagan? Hindi ba para ikaw ay pagnasahan at sumikat?” Topacio said. “‘Wag mong sabihing art ‘yon o ine-endorso mo ‘yung brand nung bikini—BS ‘yan.”
Jasmine responded directly on social media, sharing the clip in her Facebook Stories with the caption: “YOWWWWW WHAT THE ACTUAL ????? WHAT THE!!!! DUGYOT KA!”
Elago and her colleagues in the House, ACT Teachers Rep. Antonio Tinio and Kabataan Rep. Renee Co, condemned Topacio’s statements, describing them as “harassment” and “an abuse dressed up in a suit and a law degree.” They added that the remarks reflect victim-blaming and the logic of rape culture, arguing that women’s appearance or choices should not justify objectification or attacks on their dignity.
The lawmakers called on the Integrated Bar of the Philippines to review Topacio’s conduct and on dwIZ to examine the content aired on his program. They also urged the House committee on women and gender equality to take action.
Meanwhile, Suntay is facing a lawsuit from nine women alleging violations of the Safe Spaces Act, the Magna Carta of Women, and the Code of Conduct and Ethical Standards for Public Officials and Employees.
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