📷 Misamis Oriental Gov. Peter Unabia | PIA
It’s a double whammy for Misamis Oriental Gov. Peter Unabia.
Unabia drew criticism for claiming that the provincial nursing scholarship program is reserved for “beautiful women” and for making derogatory comments about Muslim Filipinos in Mindanao.
In a widely circulated video, Unabia asserted that only “attractive women” should be eligible for nursing scholarships. He argued that the health of male patients could deteriorate if they are cared for by a nurse deemed “unattractive.”
“The nursing scholarship is only for women, not for men. And only for beautiful women,” Unabia stated.
“Hindi naman pwedeng pangit kasi kung nanghihina na ang mga lalaking pasyente, kapag hinarap ng pangit na nurse, paano naman? Lalala ‘yung sakit niyan,” he added
Gabriela Partylist condemned the governor’s comments as sexist, discriminatory, and a direct affront to nurses and women. Gabriela Rep. Arlene Brosas stressed that nursing qualifications should focus on skills and empathy rather than looks.
“This is a gross display of misogyny and discrimination. Ito ay tahasang pambabastos, hindi lang sa mga nars, kundi sa buong hanay ng kababaihan,” Brosas remarked.
The organization called on voters to reject such misogynistic attitudes and to support frontline workers who truly embody public service.
Meanwhile, in an open letter, One Bangsamoro Movement (1Bangsa) strongly condemns Unabia’s remarks against Muslim Filipinos in Mindanao, which have been widely characterized by local media and community representatives as hate speech.
Reports indicate that during a recent address, the governor’s comments were seen as a deliberate attack on the dignity of the Muslim Filipinos who have long defended this land—from the sacrifices of heroes like Sultan Kudarat to the struggles of the Bangsamoro communities.
“These remarks not only belittle the valor of our ancestors but also sow division in a nation still healing from decades of conflict,” 1Bangsa Inc. National President Maulana Balangi said.
“By normalizing hate and emboldening discrimination, your comments undermine decades of peace-building efforts, including the Bangsamoro Organic Law, and further marginalize Muslim families, students, and professionals,” he added.
The group demands sincere apology from Unabia, a boycott of Sr. Pedro “Lechon Manok” and other businesses affiliated with the governor, a declaration as Persona Non Grata of Muslim-majority local government units (LGUs) and a fatwa against his candidacy or a declaration of prominent Muslim scholars as haram to vote for him in the 2025 elections.
“Your apology, as it stands, is insufficient to heal the deep wounds inflicted by your words. The Bangsamoro will not forget, and we will ensure history records your actions as a stark reminder that those who demean Mindanao’s people will fall, and we remain resolute: no vote for Unabia and a nationwide boycott of Sr. Pedro “Lechon Manok.” (ROSE NOVENARIO)
