‘In alignment with my principles’: Shamcey Supsup-Lee resigns from Pasig’s Team Kaya This

Pasig City's political landscape shifted as Shamcey Supsup-Lee, known for her advocacy of women empowerment and her background as a Miss Universe titleholder, announced her resignation from the Team Kaya This slate.

The announcement, made just before midnight on April 8, 2025, revealed that Supsup-Lee, who was vying for a council seat in Pasig's 1st District under mayoral candidate Sarah Discaya's ticket, would be stepping away from the group.

Supsup-Lee attributed her decision to "recent events" that highlighted a growing divergence between her core principles and the direction of Team Kaya This. She explicitly stated that her values as a woman, mother, and leader, particularly her dedication to women's empowerment, were no longer in alignment with the team's current path.

This move follows public criticism directed at Ian Sia, a congressional candidate also part of Team Kaya This. Sia's lewd remarks concerning single mothers sparked considerable backlash, prompting Supsup-Lee to publicly address the issue.

While Sia was temporarily restricted from team events for three days and issued an apology, he remained a member of the slate. However, for Supsup-Lee, this response seemingly did not adequately address the gravity of the situation, leading to her resignation.

In her statement, Supsup-Lee emphasized her commitment to "dignity, respect, accountability, and women empowerment," asserting that her resignation was the most principled course of action. She underscored the importance of reflection and clarity as she considers her next steps in public service.

Discaya confirmed Sia's continued inclusion within Team Kaya This, stating they would "start and end the journey together," even after his controversial comments and subsequent apology. However, Supsup-Lee's departure signals a notable point of contention within the opposition slate as Pasig City approaches the upcoming elections.

Supsup-Lee, who also holds the position of director in the Miss Universe Philippines Organization, clarified that her decision was made with respect for her fellow candidates, the organization, and the many women who look to her as a role model. Her exit from Team Kaya This underscores the ongoing dialogue around ethical conduct and values within the political arena.