Cookie ni Mocha’: Geraldine Roman Slams Mocha Uson in Fiery Open Letter — “You Chip Away at the Respect We Fought For”

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In a blistering open letter that has ignited waves across the Philippine political landscape, Bataan 1st District Representative Geraldine Roman, Chairperson of the House Committee on Women and Gender Equality, took aim at Manila 3rd District Councilor candidate Mocha Uson, denouncing what she calls a "dangerous trivialization of women’s dignity" — all sparked by a campaign jingle that left netizens both stunned and divided.

The controversial jingle, entitled “Cookie ni Mocha, ang sarap-sarap,” was launched as part of Uson’s bid for a seat in Manila’s city council. Though intended to be playful and humorous, the song's sexually suggestive undertones triggered an uproar, with critics accusing Uson of exploiting sensuality to draw attention to her candidacy.

But none were as pointed or personal as Roman’s response.

The Letter That Roared

In her open letter dated April 6, Roman acknowledged Uson’s “passion for connecting with the masses” and even praised her bravery in navigating male-dominated political spaces. However, the admiration ended there.

“Leadership is not a game of gimmicks,” Roman wrote. “The objectification of our bodies, kahit pa ito'y sinasadyang patawa o satire, chips away at the respect we've fought for.”

Roman’s words struck a chord — not just with women’s rights advocates, but with an entire nation struggling to reconcile freedom of expression with the responsibility of public service.

“I know you have good intentions,” she added, referencing Uson’s fundraising efforts for a breast cancer patient, “but your platform can do so much more than elicit laughs or go viral.”

Not Her First Rodeo with Controversy

This isn’t the first time Mocha Uson has been under fire for pushing the boundaries of political decency. In 2018, as Assistant Secretary of the Presidential Communications Operations Office, she was the face of another viral fiasco — a video titled “Pepedederalismo” featuring crude dance moves and lewd references to female anatomy. The backlash was swift and bipartisan.

Even administration allies, including former Senate President Aquilino “Nene” Pimentel Jr., urged Uson to “stick to entertainment.” Then-Davao City Mayor Sara Duterte also publicly called for greater discretion from Uson, stating that government officials must maintain decorum, regardless of intent.

Fast forward to 2025, and it seems the lessons of the past were unheeded — at least, that’s what Roman’s letter implies.

A Rallying Cry for Responsible Leadership

But Roman’s message transcends Mocha Uson alone. It's a call to all public figures, influencers, and political hopefuls to rise above noise and novelty and focus instead on what truly matters: jobs, healthcare, education, and a future of hope for every Filipino family.

“Your words carry weight,” Roman reminded. “You have a platform that can either lift others or reduce us to mere punchlines. Choose wisely.”

Her plea is clear: in an age of political showmanship and social media spectacle, dignity must not be sacrificed at the altar of virality.

Women Leading Women — With Purpose

As the first transgender woman elected to the Philippine Congress, Roman has long been a symbol of inclusion, resilience, and integrity. Her critique of Uson is not just a personal rebuke but a larger call for women in leadership to redefine power — not through provocation, but through substance.

“We are more than the sum of our body parts. We are lawmakers, mothers, breadwinners, and builders of this nation,” Roman declared.

The Bigger Picture

The clash between Roman and Uson is emblematic of the cultural tug-of-war happening in Philippine society. On one hand: a rising awareness of gender equity, political integrity, and inclusive leadership. On the other: a persistent reliance on spectacle, showbiz tactics, and viral marketing in political campaigns.

As election season heats up, one thing is certain — the Filipino people are watching. And with voices like Roman’s calling for deeper, more meaningful discourse, perhaps the nation is inching toward a new standard of leadership.

One where catchy jingles take a backseat — and genuine service takes center stage.

Wazzup Pilipinas will continue to follow this developing story, as more public figures weigh in on the increasingly heated intersection of entertainment, politics, and gender equity.

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