CAVITE, Philippines —Cavite 4th District Representative Kiko Barzaga has vehemently opposed moves to expel him from the House of Representatives, following statements from the National Unity Party (NUP) that the party is preparing a formal request for his removal. Barzaga, whose suspension from the House in December lasted 60 days, asserted that the real issue is not his conduct, emphasizing, “The problem in the House is not my behavior. I have not stolen anything from the Filipino people.”

The call for expulsion comes after NUP Chairperson Cong. Ronaldo Puno accused Barzaga of repeatedly disregarding the authority of the House and the Ethics Committee. The dispute reportedly centers on Barzaga’s social media activity and public statements, which some House members deemed inappropriate.

Barzaga’s defense raises broader questions about accountability and political maneuvering in the legislature. While ethical conduct is a legitimate concern, the line between holding a lawmaker accountable and using procedural mechanisms for political expediency can sometimes blur. In a time when social media increasingly shapes public perception and political debate, legislators’ online actions can become flashpoints for conflict, regardless of whether they involve financial misconduct or actual legislative violations.

This case illustrates a tension in democratic governance: can elected officials openly criticize institutions and use social media freely without risking political retaliation? Or, conversely, does the House have a responsibility to maintain decorum and discipline—even if it risks appearing politically motivated? Barzaga’s predicament invites reflection on the nature of accountability in politics: when the stakes are power and perception, is the real issue personal behavior—or the challenge posed to entrenched interests? (Larawan: Kiko Barzaga / Facebook)