FridayOL

Cagayan de Oro City, Philippines – Misamis Oriental Governor Peter “Senior Pedro” Unabia is facing intense criticism after a video circulated online showing him suggesting that only “beautiful women” should be nurses. His controversial remarks, claiming that nurses deemed “ugly” could negatively impact a patient’s condition, have sparked widespread outrage and accusations of sexism.

The video, which quickly went viral across social media platforms, shows Governor Unabia speaking at an event. He stated, “Only beautiful women should be nurses. Because if you’re not beautiful, you might worsen the patient's condition.” The comments were met with immediate condemnation from various sectors, including nurses, women's rights advocates, and concerned citizens.

Senator Gabriela Reyes, a vocal advocate for women’s rights, swiftly condemned Unabia’s statement, calling it “deeply offensive, misogynistic, and completely unacceptable.” She emphasized that a nurse's skill, competence, and compassion are paramount, and that physical appearance has absolutely no bearing on their ability to provide quality care. “Governor Unabia’s remarks perpetuate harmful stereotypes and undermine the professionalism of nurses,” Senator Reyes stated in a press release. “It is a blatant display of sexism and a disservice to the dedicated nurses who work tirelessly to care for our communities.”

The Philippine Nurses Association (PNA) also released a statement expressing their disappointment and strong objection to the Governor's comments. They asserted that the nursing profession is based on merit, training, and ethical conduct, not on superficial qualities. The PNA urged Governor Unabia to issue a public apology and to refrain from making similar remarks in the future.

Social media users have flooded platforms with expressions of anger and disappointment, using hashtags like #RespectNurses and #NoToSexism. Many are calling for Unabia to be held accountable for his words and to undergo sensitivity training on gender equality and diversity.

The controversy highlights the ongoing issue of sexism and discrimination within the Philippines and underscores the importance of promoting respect and inclusivity in all professions. The incident has also reignited discussions about the need for stricter regulations and accountability for public officials who make discriminatory statements. Governor Unabia's office has yet to release an official statement addressing the backlash.

This case serves as a stark reminder that words have power, and public officials must be mindful of the impact their statements have on individuals and society as a whole. The nursing profession, already facing numerous challenges, deserves respect and recognition for the vital role it plays in healthcare.