JANUARY 22, 2026 — Suspended Cavite 4th District Rep. Kiko Barzaga is back in the headlines, this time invoking “freedom of speech” to counter two complaints filed against him by the PNP-CIDG: inciting to sedition and protesting without a permit. His defense? That his words and actions fall under the constitutional right to free expression.

The sedition case stems from his commentary on the possible secession of Mindanao, while the protest charge is tied to last year’s rally outside Forbes Park. Barzaga insists there was no violence, no criminal intent. 

“Outside legal specifics, exercise of free speech for both complaints and the lack of any notable instances of violence during the protest, which means there is no reason to believe there is criminal intent,” he said.

He remains hopeful the cases will be dismissed. 

“It’s better for me if it’s dismissed. If it ever reaches court then we have to file our legal defense,” Barzaga added.

Now where do we, as a nation, draw the line? Free speech is a cornerstone of democracy, but it’s not absolute. When a public official talks about secession, does it cross into dangerous territory? Or should we defend his right to say it, no matter how provocative?

Barzaga, meanwhile, seems unfazed by his suspension, saying he spends his time on district events, sports, and his pets. 

“Mostly sports, leisure. I am enjoying the free time given to me by the suspension,” he shared.

Freedom of speech is a right, but it becomes dangerous when we forget it comes with responsibility.

Filipinos have always been vocal — whether on the streets, online, or in barangay halls. But the Barzaga case forces us to confront the tension between liberty and responsibility. 

If freedom of speech is wielded recklessly, does it strengthen democracy or weaken it? And if authorities clamp down too hard, do we risk silencing legitimate dissent?

(Image: Kiko Barzaga | Facebook)