MANILA, Philippines – Pasig City 1st District councilor hopeful Shamcey Supsup-Lee announced her resignation from mayoral candidate Sarah Discaya’s Team Kaya This slate on the evening of Monday, April 7.

Lee attributed her resignation to “recent events” that have made it clear to her that her values as a woman, mother, and leader no longer align with the direction the slate is taking, especially given her advocacy for women empowerment.

“This decision is not made lightly, but with full respect for my fellow aspirants, for the Miss Universe Philippines Organization whose mission I carry, and for the many women and girls who look to me for strength and clarity,” Lee clarified. “I choose to stand firmly by the values I’ve upheld throughout my life: dignity, respect, accountability, and women empowerment. At this point, I believe the best way to stay true to these principles is to take a step back, reflect, and listen, to allow space for clarity before taking the next steps.”

This comes just after congressional candidate Ian Sia of the same slate drew backlash for joking that single mothers may sleep with him. Sia, as a result, was barred from joining political events for three days but still remained a part of the Kaya This slate.

Discaya herself affirmed that she and Sia would start and end the journey together, adding that he was “courageous enough” to apologize to the single parents he offended.

However, Lee — the third runner-up in Miss Universe 2011 and the former head of the Miss Universe Philippines organization — was quick to criticize Sia for his remarks.

“As a woman and a mother, I do not tolerate statements — whether made in jest or in earnest — that diminish or disrespect women,” she wrote.

“I’ve spoken to Atty. lan and shared my thoughts with him directly. I believe we all have moments to learn from, and I hope this becomes one of them,” Lee continued. “I joined this team because of our shared commitment to serve Pasigueños, especially in areas like legal aid, senior support, access to quality health care, and help for solo parents. These are efforts I continue to support and build on.”

Commenters under Lee’s statement about Sia were quick to question her advocacy for women empowerment, stating that she wouldn’t remain allied with a person like him if she truly stood firm in her values.

Team Kaya This is Pasig City’s opposition slate, running against incumbent Mayor Vico Sotto’s Giting ng Pasig slate. – Rappler.com