Gabriela Condemns Sexist Remarks by Celebrity Husband Alvin Aragon
MANILA – The prominent women's alliance Gabriela has issued a strong statement expressing grave concern over what it describes as backward, degrading, and sexist remarks made by Alvin Aragon, the husband of former SexBomb Girls member Izzy Trazona, against women. The group's response comes in reaction to Aragon's public statements, which have sparked widespread criticism for shaming and blaming women based on their career choices and subjecting them to moral policing.
Reflection of Entrenched Patriarchal Culture
In a detailed statement released on February 20, 2026, Gabriela emphasized that Aragon's comments are not merely isolated personal opinions but a blatant reflection of the deeply entrenched feudal and patriarchal culture that continues to poison Philippine society. The group highlighted that his tirades, which include attempts to dictate what women should wear and how they should conduct themselves, are manifestations of a systemic culture aimed at dominating, commodifying, and controlling women.
"This culture of machismo thrives in a rotten system that treats women as private property and denies them autonomy over their own bodies and lives," Gabriela stated. "By reducing women to objects of judgment and control, such remarks reinforce harmful stereotypes that severely limit women's autonomy and dignity."
Solidarity with Women Artists
Gabriela extended its solidarity to all women artists who face discrimination, harassment, and sexist attacks in their professional lives. The alliance asserted that women are not properties to be managed nor reputations to be tarnished by disgruntled individuals. Instead, they are rights-bearing individuals who deserve dignity, respect, and the freedom to pursue their professions without fear of slut-shaming or character assassination.
The group's statement further elaborated: "We stand firmly with women who are subjected to such oppressive behavior. It is crucial to recognize that women have the right to make their own choices without facing undue criticism or control from others."
Call to Action Against Machismo
In a powerful conclusion, Gabriela called on Filipino women and the general public to actively reject the culture of machismo and misogyny. The group urged society to challenge the feudal and patriarchal norms that allow such behavior to flourish, emphasizing the need for continued struggle towards a society where women are truly liberated from all forms of discrimination, violence, and oppression.
"We must unite to dismantle these harmful structures and advocate for a future where women can live freely and equally," Gabriela added, reinforcing its commitment to advancing women's rights and social justice in the Philippines.
