Controversy Erupts Over Bong Suntay's Remarks About Anne Curtis

On March 3, 2026, during a House Committee on Justice hearing, Quezon City Representative Bong Suntay made controversial remarks about actress Anne Curtis, stating that he felt desire upon seeing her at a hotel. His comments, made during Women’s Month, drew immediate backlash from various sectors, including fellow lawmakers, netizens, and women's rights advocates. In response, Quezon City Mayor Joy Belmonte publicly called for Suntay to issue a formal apology.

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Mayor Joy Belmonte condemned Suntay's remarks as inappropriate and contrary to the values of empowerment that Quezon City has worked to uphold. In her statement, she emphasized the importance of respecting women's dignity, particularly during a month dedicated to celebrating women's rights. Belmonte noted, “His words directly contradict the spirit of empowerment that we have worked hard to build here in Quezon City,” and urged Suntay to take full accountability for his comments.

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Belmonte highlighted Suntay's previous role in passing significant gender-related policies, including the Gender and Development Code and the Bawal Bastos Ordinance, which penalizes lewd and demeaning remarks in public spaces. She expressed disappointment that Suntay, who had been involved in these initiatives, would make such objectifying comments.

Bong Suntay’s ‘Lewd’ Anne Curtis Remarks Draw Condemnation

In the wake of the controversy, Bong Suntay defended his remarks, asserting that there was nothing immoral or inappropriate about what he said. He described his comments as an expression of admiration rather than objectification, stating, “There’s nothing sexual du’n sa sinabi ko. Nothing immoral.” Suntay maintained that his remarks were merely an “imaginary situation” and should be viewed as a compliment to Curtis's beauty.

Bong Suntay stands by remarks about Anne Curtis, says comments were not immoral

Despite his defense, several lawmakers, including San Juan Representative Ysabel Maria Zamora, criticized Suntay's comments as inappropriate, especially given the timing during Women’s Month. The House committee subsequently voted to strike Suntay's remarks from the official record of the hearing.

Bong Suntay’s ‘Lewd’ Anne Curtis Remarks Draw Condemnation

The incident has sparked broader discussions regarding the standards of conduct expected from elected officials. Critics argue that such comments not only disrespect individuals but also undermine the dignity of public office. Mayor Belmonte's call for accountability reflects a growing societal expectation for public servants to uphold higher standards of respect and gender sensitivity.

Bong Suntay’s ‘Lewd’ Anne Curtis Remarks Draw Condemnation

• “I urge Congressman Bong Suntay to apologize for the inappropriate remarks that he made at a recent House committee hearing.” — Joy Belmonte, Mayor of Quezon City

Bong Suntay’s ‘Lewd’ Anne Curtis Remarks Draw Condemnation

• “Our policies are a declaration of our city’s values—of what we stand for and what we refuse to tolerate.” — Joy Belmonte, Mayor of Quezon City

Mayor Joy Belmonte Urges Bong Suntay to Apologize Over Inappropriate Remarks

• “There’s nothing sexual du’n sa sinabi ko. Nothing immoral. I said may na-imagine ako. I think there’s nothing wrong. There’s nothing even sexual sa statement na ‘yon.” — Bong Suntay, Quezon City Representative

Bong Suntay stands by remarks about Anne Curtis, says comments were not immoral

As of now, neither Anne Curtis nor her husband, Erwan Heussaff, has publicly commented on the controversy. The incident underscores the ongoing struggle for gender respect and equality, highlighting the critical need for public officials to model the values they advocate.

Bong Suntay stands by remarks about Anne Curtis, says comments were not immoral