Comelec to Pasay councilor: Explain possible 'racial discrimination' remark

Metro Manila, Philippines - The Commission on Elections (Comelec) has asked a councilor and mayoral candidate in Pasay City to explain her remark that may be considered racial discrimination.

In a campaign rally, Councilor Editha "Wowee" Manguera said, "Tanggalin na natin ang bumbay para wala nang amoy sibuyas na naiiwan sa Pasay Gen."

[Translation: Let us remove people of Indian descent from the Pasay Gen and remove the smell of onions.]

In the show cause order issued on Tuesday, April 15, the Comelec believed Maguera was referring to “foreign students studying and interning at the Pasay City General Hospital.”

The poll body said the candidate’s remark constitutes possible violation of the Anti-Discrimination and Fair Campaigning Guidelines.

The Comelec gave Manguera three days to respond.

Equality, inclusivity

Meanwhile, the Pasay City General Hospital denounced “ridicule, shame, or hate” targeted at their staff, whom they hold in “high regard.”

The local government, which runs the hospital, said the facility continues to be “steadfast in advocating for equality and inclusivity.”

“Through the years, Pasay City General Hospital has developed into a full-fledged training hospital – a robust training ground for allied health trainees and professionals that greatly contribute to the wide-scale positive transformation of the institution,” it said in a statement.

“Pasay City General Hospital remains committed to upholding the values of respect, dignity, and integrity, as we continue providing the best healthcare to all our patients,” it said.

NewsWatch Plus correspondent Daniza Fernandez contributed to this report.