CHR 'gravely concerned' over red-tagging, sexist remarks in campaigns

The Commission on Human Rights (CHR) on Saturday expressed grave concern over increasing incidents of electoral offenses, including red-tagging and lewd remarks in campaign sorties for Eleksyon 2025.

The CHR also raised the alarm on how deep fakes are being used for red-tagging and the spread of misinformation, which falsely links some candidates to the New People's Army. The commission added it received reports that captured sample photos of some candidates’ tarpaulins posted in public that included statements against progressive and activist groups.

“The CHR strongly reminds the public, political candidates, and incumbent officials that red-tagging endangers a person’s rights to life, liberty, and security. Such acts undermine individual dignity and erode the very pillars of democratic engagement,” it said.

Further, the CHR also said it is also “deeply alarmed” over a video circulating online where a congressional candidate made alleged sexist remarks about women during a campaign event in Pasig City.

“The Commission affirms that such behavior constitutes a violation of the Magna Carta of Women, and calls on the COMELEC to adopt a Code of Conduct for all electoral candidates,” it said.

The CHR also called on relevant authorities, especially Comelec, to take “swift and appropriate action” in investigating the incidents, and insist on the importance of upholding human rights, gender sensitivity, and ethical conduct in political campaigns.

“The Commission also takes this opportunity to remind both the public and candidates to ensure that electoral discourse remains inclusive, respectful, and free from discrimination, misogyny, and hate. Ultimately, Filipinos deserve a campaign environment that fosters informed, meaningful, and respectful conversations—allowing voters to choose their leaders wisely and freely,” the CHR said.

The Makabayan bloc last month filed a complaint with the Comelec over alleged harassment and red-tagging in the Eleksyon 2025 campaign.

Their complaint details the red-tagging of a Kabataan Partylist nominee on social media, harassment of a Gabriela Women’s Party nominee, and the removal or defacement of campaign materials in southern Luzon.

Meanwhile, lawyer Christian Sia, who is running for representative of the lone district of Pasig City, drew flak over his joke at a recent campaign rally that female solo parents may sleep with him once a year.

The Comelec has already issued a show cause order against Sia, asking him to explain why he should not be filed with an election offense or disqualification for violating Comelec Resolution No. 1116. —Jamil Santos/ VAL, GMA Integrated News

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