DAVAO CITY, Philippines (June 2) — By a vote of 265-14 and eight abstentions, Cavite 4th District Representative Francisco “Kiko” Barzaga was expelled from the House of Representatives.
Barzaga is the second lawmaker in recent history to be formally removed from Congress after former Negros Oriental Representative Arnolfo “Arnie” Teves Jr.
Ethics Commitee Chairperson AJ Abalos said Barzaga repeatedly engaged in disruptive, disrespectful, and disorderly conduct that obstructed plenary proceedings and undermined the dignity and solemnity of Congress.
The dramatic downfall of one of the youngest and most outspoken members of the 20th Congress followed escalating ethics complaints, repeated suspensions, and controversial public statements that deeply divided lawmakers and the public.
Barzaga became the subject of multiple complaints before the House Committee on Ethics and Privileges after a series of social media posts and public allegations against fellow lawmakers and influential personalities. Prior to his expulsion, he had already been slapped with two separate 60-day suspensions without pay and allowances — among the harshest disciplinary actions imposed by the chamber.
The controversy stemmed from Barzaga’s public accusations of corruption, including claims that lawmakers allegedly accepted bribes during the 2025 House speakership race and allegations linking congressional figures to questionable flood-control projects. Several lawmakers denied the accusations and filed complaints against him, including cyberlibel cases.
House ethics proceedings also cited what lawmakers described as reckless, offensive, and inflammatory statements on social media that allegedly damaged the dignity and integrity of Congress.
Despite the sanctions, Barzaga remained defiant until the end.
The Cavite lawmaker repeatedly insisted that the disciplinary actions against him were politically motivated and argued that Congress should instead focus on urgent national issues. He maintained that his criticisms were part of his duty as a public official and warned that efforts to silence dissent within Congress could further weaken public trust in democratic institutions.
The expulsion marks a stunning political fall for the son of late Cavite political stalwart Rep. Elpidio Barzaga Jr. Once regarded as a rising figure within the majority bloc and even appointed assistant majority leader early in the 20th Congress, Kiko Barzaga eventually broke ranks with the National Unity Party (NUP), openly criticized House leadership, and emerged as one of the chamber’s fiercest dissenting voices.
His removal now places him alongside Arnolfo “Arnie” Teves Jr., who was expelled from the House in 2023 following prolonged absences and controversies linked to the killing of Negros Oriental Governor Roel Degamo.
Political observers say Barzaga’s expulsion highlights growing tensions inside Congress over accountability, free expression, and the limits of political dissent within one of the country’s most powerful institutions.
For supporters, Barzaga became a symbol of resistance against political conformity. For critics, his repeated actions crossed the boundaries of responsible conduct expected from a member of Congress.
What remains certain is that his expulsion will likely deepen debates over power, discipline, and freedom of speech inside the Philippine legislature.— Editha Z. Caduaya.-Editha Z Caduaya
