MANILA, Philippines — Metro Manila Development Authority (MMDA) official Edison Bong Nebrija has ignited public debate after criticizing several congressmen over a viral moment in the impeachment hearing of Vice President Sara Duterte.

During the House Committee on Justice proceedings, lawmakers—including Chel Diokno, Perci Cendaña, and Leila de Lima—brought snack products, notably “Piattos” and “Mary Grace,” to the hearing. This was intended as a symbolic protest highlighting alleged misuse of confidential funds. The unusual tactic quickly went viral on social media, sparking both amusement and criticism.

Nebrija expressed his frustration in a social media post, bluntly stating: “Ganyan ang mga kongresista na hinahalal natin kaya di tayo umaaansenso. Mapapamura ka na lang talaga. Ang daming problema ng bayan kung anu ano inaatupag nyo!” (Roughly: “This is the kind of congressmen we elect—no wonder we don’t progress. You just want to curse. While the country faces many serious problems, you focus on trivialities!”)

His remarks underscore a broader tension between political theatrics and substantive governance. While lawmakers may argue that symbolic acts draw attention to systemic issues, critics say such gestures can trivialize serious proceedings and distract from pressing national concerns, such as rising fuel prices and global crises affecting the Philippines.

The incident raises important questions about priorities and accountability: Should lawmakers rely on theatrical stunts to make political points, or does such behavior undermine public trust and distract from urgent issues that affect millions of Filipinos?

In a time when the nation faces multiple challenges, one pressing question remains: Are symbolic protests in Congress helping democracy—or are they a symptom of misplaced priorities?

(Larawan mula: Bong Nebrija, Peanut Gallery Media Network / Facebook)