‘SEXIST’ TARP

It’s good to give to the poor at these trying times, but don’t be a sexist especially if you are a public servant.

Marbin Garcia, councilor of Barangay Maysantol in Bulacan, is now the object of severe criticism on social media after displaying a tarpaulin that allegedly disrespects and degrades women in a community pantry he supposedly organized in the province.

Netizens found Garcia’s tarpaulin that reads: “Kumuha ng ayon sa laki ng suso” too sexist.

The tarpaulin also bears the face of YouTube vlogger Toni Fowler who is not only beautiful but also busty.

In Facebook group Community Pantry PH, several netizens, including Ian Rodriguez, called out the councilor.

“Is there any way we can contact the organizer? This needs to be called out for three reasons: 1. Degrading women, 2. The other banner with an imposing statement, 3. He is a public servant,” Rodriguez said.

Ros Fajardo added: “They’re probably trying to replicate the wittiness of the hugot signages. Epic fail.”

“Wag ganoon. Pwede pa namang maging unique sa ibang paraan,” Joy Agarrado also said.

“It’s not funny!… He needs to take down his body shaming slogan. Not very inclusive and very disrespectful of women,” a certain Dncl Xstie added.

While there were those who called him out, others praised and congratulated him for his initiative.

Some also wished they have Garcia in their community as he offered a wide variety of food, including vegetables, chickens, eggs, instant noodles, canned goods, and several condiments.

Aside from the alleged degrading tarpaulin, there is also a signage which said: “Kumuha ng tama. Huwag gawing collection items ang mga gulay.”

GARCIA APOLOGIZED

In his Facebook post yesterday, Garcia said it was not his intention to disrespect women when they posted the said tarpaulin.

“Hindi namin naging layunin na makasakit ng damdamin o makabastos ng kahit sino lalo na ang ating mga kababaihan, dahil kagaya ng lahat sa atin ako ay may ina, kapatid at mga kamag-anak na babae na kahit kailan ay di ko nanaisin na mabastos,” Garcia said.

The councilor said that if he really committed something that was not favorable, he would apologize for it as he only wanted to lighten the mood of the people going to their pantry amid challenges they are facing.