House Minority Leader Marcelino “Nonoy” Libanan revealed that Cavite 4th District Rep. Francisco “Kiko” Barzaga has been seeking support from fellow lawmakers, fueling talk that he is preparing a challenge for the speakership.
Barzaga recently broke away from the National Unity Party (NUP) after being accused of gathering signatures to unseat House Speaker Martin Romualdez. He earlier pushed for an investigation into Romualdez over alleged irregularities in flood control projects.
NUP, however, is hitting back. House Deputy Speaker Ronaldo Puno announced that the party will file an ethics complaint against Barzaga, citing several instances of misconduct. Among these was a controversial social media post where Barzaga addressed anti-corruption protesters, saying: “I understand that you’re angry but if you’re going to burn the Congress, give us some time to evacuate the workers and important documents.”
Puno also accused Barzaga of storming the office of House Majority Leader Sandro Marcos last September 15 and openly declaring, “I am running for speaker.” He claimed Barzaga even offered a deputy speakership to one lawmaker in exchange for support.
“He is not well but I’m not a doctor to say it. He is propagating his messages not worthy of the people’s trust. His behavior is not proper, kakaiba ‘yung kaniyang norms of behavior,” Puno said.
Barzaga, meanwhile, has continued drawing attention with his unorthodox moves, from criticizing local officials like Pasig Mayor Vico Sotto to posting a video of himself singing Gloc-9’s “Upuan” before a House plenary session. Standing at the podium, he vowed: “Magbabago na ang House of Representatives. We will bring justice into this corrupt system.”
