PCW to advertisers: Stop using women’s bodies to sell products

The Philippine Commission on Women (PCW) expressed concern over the alarming sexualization, exploitation, and objectification of women in online advertisements.

The PCW said it fears that it would not only demean and devalue women, but also "actively normalize harmful gender stereotypes and undermine their dignity and rights as humans."

"To all advertisers, brands, sellers, and digital platforms: Stop commodifying women’s bodies to sell products. This is not merely a breach of ethical standards; it is a violation of human rights. It is against the law," it said, citing the Magna Carta of Women and the Safe Spaces Act.

The PCW said both laws affirm every woman's right to dignity and freedom from objectification in physical and digital spaces.

While the Commission did not mention any brand or online platform, it said that it has formally reached out to concerned entities and the e-commerce platform, urging the immediate removal "of all demeaning content."

"We emphasize their responsibility to ensure that their platforms are not used as sanctuaries for sexism, misogyny, or exploitation," PCW said.

It also called on the public to take an active role in reporting such

content: "Let your opinion as consumers raise the alarm: the objectification of women must never be normalized, especially in digital spaces that shape perceptions globally."

"When you encounter these ads, act immediately to let these online platforms know that their actions are not acceptable. Use the built-in reporting tools of the online platform where the ad appeared," it said.

"Let us collectively demand and build physical and online environments that truly reflect respect, equality, and human dignity," it added.