|
“It is disconcerting that legitimate arguments against the
promotion and/or confirmation of staunch allies of the Arroyo
administration can be reduced to name-calling and labelling of women
who hold strong opinions. These sort of sexist remarks are no
different from centuries-old labels on staunch women fighters who
were condemned as madwomen or witches.”
Thus said Gabriela Women’s Party Rep. Liza
Maza, as she cautioned colleagues in the Commission on Appointments
against stooping to the level of chauvinism and disrespect in order
to railroad the appointments of 24 generals reportedly being
supported by the Arroyo government.
News reports said Sen. Jamby Madrigal received
sexist remarks after she invoked Section 20 of Senate rules that
allows a legislator to question decisions, in this case, blocking
the appointment of the generals.
Another paper said military officials and
generals retorted to Madrigal’s move, saying “Kayo kasi, ayaw
ninyong ligawan, may asim pa naman (It’s your fault. You don’t
want to court her. She’s still good.)” and “Buang gyud ning
bayhana ni” (This woman is crazy).
“It is but right that the CA conscientiously
exercise its powers to scrutinize appointments. In the midst of a
political crisis where positions of power can be handed out as
paybacks and collaterals for loyalty, prudence, diligence and
independence this should be the stance that the CA should take,”
Maza argued.
|
