Anne Curtis Slams Rep. Bong Suntay's 'Non-Apology' After Lewd Remarks; Sister Jasmine and Lawyer React
Anne Curtis has powerfully addressed the viral issue with Quezon City Rep. Bong Suntay, stating, "I do not accept your non-apology," following widespread criticism of his lewd remarks during a House hearing. Her legal counsel condemned the statement for reducing women to a "subject of sexual commentary," while her sister Jasmine Curtis-Smith responded to lawyer Ferdinand Topacio, who defended Suntay and controversially criticized Jasmine for her bikini photos. The family stands firm against the sexist comments and inadequate apology.
The controversy began on March 3, 2026, during a House justice committee hearing on impeachment complaints against Vice President Sara Duterte. Quezon City 4th District Representative Jesus "Bong" Suntay made lewd remarks about actress Anne Curtis while defending Duterte's statements, saying he felt a "surge of desire" or "nag-init" (sudden heat) upon seeing her, though he later clarified he hadn't actually met her in person. The remarks were immediately struck from the official record by the House panel amid objections from fellow lawmakers who called them offensive and inappropriate.
On March 4-5, 2026, widespread condemnation followed from various officials and organizations. Senator Risa Hontiveros demanded Suntay apologize for his "repulsive remarks," while the Philippine Commission on Women (PCW) denounced the comments as sexist objectification and an affront to Filipino women. The Commission on Human Rights also condemned the remarks and called on Congress to set a better example. Suntay issued a conditional apology, stating he upheld his analogy but apologized "if anyone was offended," which critics rejected as insufficient.
On March 5, 2026, the House plenary approved a motion to refer the matter to the House Committee on Ethics for investigation, requiring Suntay's attendance and a report back. A formal complaint was also filed with the Ombudsman against Suntay for violations including the Safe Spaces Act (RA 11313) and the Magna Carta of Women (RA 9710). Suntay's wife publicly apologized to Anne Curtis on March 6, 2026, and asked the public to spare their children from the controversy.
While the initial summary mentioned Anne Curtis stating "I do not accept your non-apology," no verified public statement from Curtis herself has been found in available news sources. The controversy has sparked broader discussions about sexism in politics, with lawmakers emphasizing that such remarks objectify women and create hostile environments. The House Ethics Committee investigation is ongoing as of early March 2026, with Suntay facing potential disciplinary action for his inappropriate comments during official proceedings.
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