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Advocates Philippines
Sara Duterte Backs Kiko Barzaga After Expulsion From House
Photo credit: Sara Duterte and Kiko Barzaga
Vice President Sara Duterte has thrown her support behind former Cavite lawmaker Francisco Barzaga following his expulsion from the House of Representatives, describing him as a leader who remained true to his principles despite standing apart from the crowd.
In an open letter posted on social media on June 3, Duterte praised Barzaga's independence and resilience, saying that being different often comes with criticism but should never be mistaken for weakness.
“It takes grit to be yourself in a world that rewards conformity,” Duterte wrote, adding that people will not always understand the choices made by those who refuse to follow the status quo.
The Vice President also drew parallels to her own experience, saying she had often been called names and criticized for refusing to conform to expectations.
Duterte used the letter to defend Barzaga's character, highlighting what she described as his integrity and refusal to tolerate wrongdoing. She said he had never been convicted of child abuse, had never taken home public funds, and had never allowed corruption or oppression to dictate his actions.
Addressing Barzaga's reported expulsion from the House, Duterte encouraged him to remain steadfast, saying that “walking alone is okay” if it means staying true to one's beliefs.
“It takes courage to charge forward even if no one will follow you,” she wrote, adding that his resolve serves as a reminder that character matters more than conformity.
The letter also included a personal note with Duterte expressing concern for Barzaga's health after learning he was suffering from a cold. She advised him to take Vitamin C, drink plenty of water, and focus on getting well.
Duterte ended her message by assuring Barzaga that he remains loved and respected by many, including Caviteños and Dabawenyos.
The Vice President's public endorsement comes amid growing attention surrounding Barzaga's expulsion from the House of Representatives, a development that has sparked discussions among political observers and supporters in Cavite and beyond.
In an open letter posted on social media on June 3, Duterte praised Barzaga's independence and resilience, saying that being different often comes with criticism but should never be mistaken for weakness.
“It takes grit to be yourself in a world that rewards conformity,” Duterte wrote, adding that people will not always understand the choices made by those who refuse to follow the status quo.
The Vice President also drew parallels to her own experience, saying she had often been called names and criticized for refusing to conform to expectations.
Duterte used the letter to defend Barzaga's character, highlighting what she described as his integrity and refusal to tolerate wrongdoing. She said he had never been convicted of child abuse, had never taken home public funds, and had never allowed corruption or oppression to dictate his actions.
Addressing Barzaga's reported expulsion from the House, Duterte encouraged him to remain steadfast, saying that “walking alone is okay” if it means staying true to one's beliefs.
“It takes courage to charge forward even if no one will follow you,” she wrote, adding that his resolve serves as a reminder that character matters more than conformity.
The letter also included a personal note with Duterte expressing concern for Barzaga's health after learning he was suffering from a cold. She advised him to take Vitamin C, drink plenty of water, and focus on getting well.
Duterte ended her message by assuring Barzaga that he remains loved and respected by many, including Caviteños and Dabawenyos.
The Vice President's public endorsement comes amid growing attention surrounding Barzaga's expulsion from the House of Representatives, a development that has sparked discussions among political observers and supporters in Cavite and beyond.
Jun 3, 2026
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