Cagayan de Oro: The Commission on Elections (Comelec) has filed a disqualification case against Misamis Oriental Governor Peter Unabia following his alleged remarks at a campaign rally stating that only beautiful women should pursue nursing careers.

According to Philippines News Agency, Comelec Chair George Garcia announced that the poll body's Task Force on Safeguarding Against Fear and Exclusion in Elections submitted the disqualification case against Unabia to the Office of the Clerk. However, the Comelec has yet to release the petition document.

The task force had previously issued a show cause order (SCO) against Governor Unabia, who is seeking reelection. The SCO cited possible violations of Comelec Resolution No. 11116, which outlines the Anti-Discrimination and Fair Campaigning Guidelines.

On April 3, during a campaign event, Unabia allegedly stated that the province's nursing scholarship program is limited to beautiful female students. Additional accusations include claims that Unabia suggested Maranaos could pose a security threat to Misamis Oriental if his son, First District Representative Christian Unabia, who is also running for reelection, was defeated by a candidate with ties to a Maranao politician.

The statements made by Unabia have been labeled as discriminatory against women, gender-based harassment, and labeling by the SCO. In response, Unabia defended his comments, arguing that they are part of protected political expression necessary for transparency and engagement in public discourse.