TV host Mariel Rodriguez and her husband, Senator Robin Padilla, have come under fire from netizens after making what many perceived as insensitive remarks about spousal rape.

The controversy erupted when Mariel shared a photo on Facebook of herself and Robin kissing, accompanied by the caption, “Oh may consent yan ah .” Robin responded to her post with, “Hello babe I’m in heat ,” to which Mariel replied, “It’s a tie… I’m feeling hot hot hot .”

These exchanges drew sharp criticism from netizens, who accused the couple of making light of a serious issue. Comments on the post reflected widespread disappointment:

 

 

 

 

The backlash is rooted in a recent Senate hearing where Senator Padilla, who chairs the Senate Committee on Public Information and Mass Media, sparked controversy with his comments on spousal rape. During the hearing on August 15, Padilla questioned what a husband should do if his wife refuses to have sex, implying that men have “sexual rights” over their spouses.

Padilla’s remarks were met with widespread condemnation, with many critics arguing that he downplayed the importance of consent in marriage. Attorney Lorna Kapunan, who was present at the hearing, countered Padilla’s remarks by emphasizing the need for mutual respect between spouses and advocating for counseling and communication as solutions.

Following the outcry, Senator Padilla issued an apology to those who were offended by his comments during the hearing, but the controversy has continued to generate debate on social media.