NATIONAL
Advocates Philippines
House Suspends Barzaga For 60 Days Over Social Media Posts
Screengrab from Congress PH
The House of Representatives has officially suspended Cavite 4th District Rep. Kiko Barzaga for 60 days without pay following a ruling that his social media posts constituted disorderly behavior. The decision was adopted by the House plenary in a vote of 249–5–11.
The suspension stems from the findings of the House Committee on Ethics and Privileges, which also ordered Barzaga to delete the posts cited in the complaint. Committee chair Rep. JC Abalos presented the recommendation on the House floor before the vote.
Barzaga Stands by His Posts
Barzaga issued a statement defending his remarks, arguing that the case was more about accountability than ethics.
“They said my statements were unethical, but they never said it was untrue,” he said, asserting that criticism of government officials—including the President—should not trigger disciplinary action.
While he accepts the House’s decision, Barzaga maintains the substance of his posts.
Questions of Selective Enforcement
The suspension has sparked debate among lawmakers. Some raised concerns that the process seemed selective, noting that other members with more serious allegations have not faced similar scrutiny.
Batangas Rep. Leandro Leviste warned that the House risks damaging its credibility if disciplinary actions appear inconsistent. Others argued that government officials must be able to face criticism without being overly sensitive.
A Larger Debate on Accountability and Expression
The 60-day suspension of Barzaga is one of the most decisive disciplinary actions taken against a sitting House member in recent years. Observers say the case highlights broader questions about freedom of expression, political sensitivity, and the standards Congress applies to its own members.
The suspension stems from the findings of the House Committee on Ethics and Privileges, which also ordered Barzaga to delete the posts cited in the complaint. Committee chair Rep. JC Abalos presented the recommendation on the House floor before the vote.
Barzaga Stands by His Posts
Barzaga issued a statement defending his remarks, arguing that the case was more about accountability than ethics.
“They said my statements were unethical, but they never said it was untrue,” he said, asserting that criticism of government officials—including the President—should not trigger disciplinary action.
While he accepts the House’s decision, Barzaga maintains the substance of his posts.
Questions of Selective Enforcement
The suspension has sparked debate among lawmakers. Some raised concerns that the process seemed selective, noting that other members with more serious allegations have not faced similar scrutiny.
Batangas Rep. Leandro Leviste warned that the House risks damaging its credibility if disciplinary actions appear inconsistent. Others argued that government officials must be able to face criticism without being overly sensitive.
A Larger Debate on Accountability and Expression
The 60-day suspension of Barzaga is one of the most decisive disciplinary actions taken against a sitting House member in recent years. Observers say the case highlights broader questions about freedom of expression, political sensitivity, and the standards Congress applies to its own members.
Dec 1, 2025
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