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

Wazzup Pilipinas!?

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.

The Battle for Democracy: Why the Ballot Is Our Last Line of Defense Against Political Dynasties

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Hear me out.

The 1987 Philippine Constitution—our country’s supreme law—was crafted in the wake of dictatorship, rising from the ashes of oppression to guarantee democracy, justice, and equal opportunity for every Filipino. And in its most crucial provisions lies a weapon, sharp and clear: a prohibition against political dynasties.

But here we are—almost four decades later—and that weapon remains sheathed, dulled by deliberate inaction and betrayal from within the halls of power.

Why?

Because the very people mandated to enforce it—the lawmakers—are the ones who stand to lose the most. And so, they’ve done what self-serving politicians do best: absolutely nothing.

The Betrayal in Broad Daylight

Let’s call it what it is: a betrayal. The framers of our Constitution foresaw the dangers of political families consolidating control over public office like a family business. They put in place Article II, Section 26, which says: "The State shall guarantee equal access to opportunities for public service and prohibit political dynasties as may be defined by law."

But that “as may be defined by law” clause? That’s the loophole they clung to for dear life. Without an enabling law, the anti-dynasty provision is a dead letter—a powerful idea, rendered powerless by legislative cowardice.

And cowardice has consequences.

From Congress to the Barangay: A Family Affair

Today, political dynasties infest every level of government—from the Senate down to the barangay kagawad. It’s not just about one family member in politics. It’s about spouses, siblings, children, cousins, and even in-laws taking turns in public office like it’s a family heirloom.

In the 2022 elections alone, a staggering 80% of district representatives came from political families. That’s not representation—it’s monopoly. The upcoming 2025 elections are shaping up to be no different. Dynasties are poised to rotate and recycle themselves to hold on to the power they’ve hoarded for generations.

The game is rigged—and they’re not even hiding it anymore.

The Duterte-Marcos Drama: A Dynasty Duel

Look no further than the Duterte-Marcos saga, a real-life teleserye of power, pride, and vengeance. Former President Rodrigo Duterte, now 79, is eyeing a return as mayor of Davao City, just as his daughter Sara Duterte grapples with impeachment attempts as Vice President. All this while the Marcoses consolidate control from the highest seat in the land.

What we are witnessing is not governance—it’s a power struggle between entrenched families who see the nation as a prize to be divided, not a people to be served.

This is not the democracy we were promised.

If Congress Fails Us, the People Must Rise

Don’t wait for Congress to grow a conscience. They won’t.

Even Senate President Chiz Escudero, one of the few who expressed openness to supporting an anti-dynasty law, knows the challenge: too many lawmakers benefit from the system. Reform will never come from within. It must come from us.

It’s time to stop hoping and start acting.

We, the people, outnumber them. The power of change is literally in our hands—our ballots.

Your Ballot Is a Weapon. Use It Wisely.

Every election, we are given a sacred tool: the vote. Not just a right, but a duty. If our lawmakers refuse to uphold the Constitution, we must uphold it ourselves—with fierce resolve and collective courage.

The Constitution is clear. The warning has been sounded. Political dynasties are a danger to democracy. And every time we cast a vote for a family member of a sitting politician, we are digging the grave of our Republic a little deeper.

So this 2025, look at the candidates. Look past the billboards, past the jingles, past the last name’s familiarity. Look at the pattern. If you see a family trying to secure multiple positions at once—mayor, councilor, congressman, governor—you are witnessing a hostile takeover of your town, your province, your future.

Do not be fooled.

The Final Stand for a Free Philippines

We must end this cycle. For the dream of a Philippines where leadership is earned—not inherited. For the promise of a government that serves the people—not protects family fiefdoms. For the Constitution that demands equality, not dynasty.

We are not powerless. We are just complacent.

But not anymore.

Let 2025 be the year we fight back.

Let the ballot be our revolution.

Let history remember that the people refused to be ruled by bloodlines, and chose instead to be led by vision, values, and virtue.

The dynasty ends when we say it does.

By Ross Flores Del Rosario, Founder of Wazzup Pilipinas

Ross Flores Del Rosario is the founder of Wazzup Pilipinas, an advocate for transparency, and the External Vice President of the Green Party of the Philippines.

Shamcey Supsup-Lee Resigns from KAYA THIS Amid Controversy: A Stand for Integrity

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In a decisive move that underscores her unwavering commitment to personal values, Architect Shamcey Supsup-Lee has announced her resignation from the Pasig-based political party, KAYA THIS. This development follows a recent controversy involving a party member's inappropriate remarks about single mothers.​

A Commitment to Principles

Supsup-Lee, renowned for her accomplishments in both the architectural and pageantry realms, emphasized that her decision stemmed from a misalignment between her core values and the party's recent trajectory. In her official statement, she articulated:​

"I choose to stand firmly by the values I’ve upheld throughout my life: dignity, respect, accountability, and women empowerment." ​

Catalyst for Departure

The immediate impetus for her resignation appears to be the controversial remarks made by Christian "Ian" Sia, a fellow party member and congressional candidate. During a campaign rally, Sia made a lewd joke suggesting that female solo parents could sleep with him once a year. The comment sparked widespread backlash, leading to public apologies from Sia and condemnation from various sectors. ​

Public Response and Advocacy

Prior to her resignation, Supsup-Lee publicly addressed the incident, stating:​

"As a woman and a mother, I do not tolerate statements—whether made in jest or in earnest—that diminish or disrespect women." ​

Her departure from KAYA THIS has been met with a mix of support and speculation. Supporters commend her for taking a principled stand, while political analysts ponder the implications for her future endeavors.​

Looking Ahead

While Supsup-Lee has not detailed her immediate plans following this resignation, her track record suggests a continued dedication to advocacy, particularly in areas concerning women's rights and empowerment. Her departure from KAYA THIS serves as a poignant reminder of the importance of aligning one's affiliations with personal principles, even amidst the complexities of political landscapes.​

As the situation develops, many will be watching to see how Supsup-Lee channels her passion and commitment in future initiatives.​