Valte: PNoy won’t condone display of disrespect in LP event 

President Benigno Aquino III will not condone the lewd dance performed by an all-female group shortly after new Liberal Party (LP) members took their oaths in Sta. Cruz, Laguna, a Malacañang spokesperson said Friday. 

 

“Women are not objects to be given away as gifts during celebrations. The President has always stood firm against the exploitation of women and will not condone such displays of disrespect,” said deputy presidential spokesperson Abigail Valte. 

 

A group of sexy dancers called Playgirls took the stage after LP standard bearer Mar Roxas swore in new party members on Thursday. The emcee at the event declared that it was a gift from MMDA chairman and senatorial aspirant Francis Tolentino. 

 

Tolentino drew flak over the incident but denied that the “gift” came from him. He said he was just a guest at the birthday party of Laguna Rep. Benjie Agarao, which was also celebrated in the same venue. 

Agarao has since cleared Tolentino on the incident, saying it was his friends who were behind the sexy girls' performance.  

Earlier in the day, Roxas said the LP is conducting an investigation on the incident, reminding party members never to resort to similar gimmicks in future activities.

"Lilinawin ko po: Mariin kong ipinagbabawal sa anumang aspekto ng ating kampanya ang ganitong uri ng pagsasamantala sa kababaihan," Roxas added. 

 

In a separate text message, Senator Vicente Sotto III said those behind the act should be ashamed of themselves. 

 

“Those kind of shows are never appropriate anytime. [It is] demeaning for women. The persons who are behind those kinds of shows whoever they are should be ashamed of themselves,” Sotto said. 

 

“Wala ba silang mga ina? I’m sure na nahihiya ang mga ina nila!” he added. — RSJ, GMA News