Manila Vice Mayor Chi Atienza has announced that the city council will convene a public hearing on Thursday, October 16, to investigate sexual harassment allegations raised during its October 9 session.
The inquiry centers on a complaint by Manila 4th District Councilor Eunice Castro, who accused fellow 4th District Councilor Ryan Ponce of repeatedly making sexually suggestive remarks toward her.
In response to Castro’s statements, Ponce issued an apology, stating that he did not intend to harm or offend her.
As presiding officer of the council, Atienza formally requested the Committee on Ethics, chaired by Atty. Jaybee Hizon, to conduct the hearing.
She emphasized the importance of a fair, impartial, and transparent investigation, citing the constitutional principle of public accountability under Article XI of the 1987 Constitution.
“This is to ensure that both parties are given their right to due process and to allow the wheels of justice to prevail, in accordance with the Council’s Internal Rules of Procedure and applicable laws,” Atienza said.
She also called on council members to uphold the highest standards of professionalism and to strictly observe due process in all proceedings.
“In light of what transpired last Thursday, I trust that everyone has taken the time to review the memorandum I issued to the 13th Council of Manila, reminding all members of the strict obligation to uphold professionalism and to refrain from engaging in any form of sexual banter or innuendo during Council proceedings,” the vice mayor said in her speech of manifestation.
“Let us maintain the highest level of respect and decorum inside and outside of this chamber,” she added.
Atienza stressed the city council does not tolerate any form of harassment or inappropriate behavior, either inside or outside the session hall, noting that every public servant must be held to the highest standards of respect and integrity.
Attendees of the public hearing are also reminded to observe the sub judice rule, with the city council requesting them to refrain from taking photos, videos, or audio recordings of the proceedings to maintain its integrity.
“I call on everyone, especially our friends in the media, to allow the process to take its course. Let us respect the rights and dignity of both the complainant and the respondent. These are serious allegations, and it would be unfair to pass judgment without a proper and impartial investigation,” Atienza said. (Patrick Garcia)
