Kiko Barzaga's Expulsion Marks a Rare Moment in Philippine Congress

The House Vote That Changed Everything

Lawmakers on Tuesday, June 2, voted to expel Cavite 4th District Rep. Francisco "Kiko" Barzaga over disruptive and disorderly behavior. The decision makes him the first lawmaker in nearly three years to be removed from the House of Representatives. Lawmakers voted 265 in favor, 14 against, and eight abstained, adopting Committee Report No. 298, which found Barzaga guilty of disruptive and disorderly conduct that violated parliamentary rules.

This outcome did not come lightly for the neophyte lawmaker from Cavite. House ethics committee chair Rep. JC Abalos described a pattern of highly disruptive, discourteous, and disorderly behavior that obstructed plenary proceedings and undermined legislative decorum. These actions included repeated interruption of plenary sessions, mockery of leadership including former Speaker Martin Romualdez, and unauthorized live broadcasts during budget deliberations.

A Pattern of Repeated Violations

Barzaga had already been suspended twice for 60 days over social media posts that triggered complaints and accusations against fellow lawmakers and government officials. He also faced complaints before the National Bureau of Investigation over his posts on the Senate shooting incident, which were flagged as alleged disinformation. House Deputy Speaker and Iloilo 1st District Rep. Janette Garin noted that the case reflected repeated breaches of decorum and a pattern of misconduct that included public accusations against colleagues.

Barzaga has also been at the center of multiple ethics complaints, including allegations that he linked lawmakers to the death of Iloilo Vice Mayor Aimee Paz Lamasan, who died in an accidental firearm discharge, and other inflammatory claims posted online. Lawmakers who supported his expulsion said lesser penalties had failed to correct his behavior, with Abalos noting that repeated suspensions will not likely deter further violations.

Barzaga's Final Words Before Leaving Congress

Ahead of the vote, Barzaga had already confirmed that his expulsion was imminent, saying the ethics panel had recommended his removal after weeks of scrutiny over his social media activity. Since it's my last day in Congress, so I'm saying my goodbyes to my fellow colleagues. And I'm telling them not to steal so much, Barzaga said.

His online presence often portrayed him as an animal rights advocate, and at times he adopted a cat persona with posts ending in a meow. This unique style drew both attention and criticism during his time in the House, adding another layer to the discussions around his conduct.

Looking Back at Past Expulsions in the House

Barzaga's removal comes after a series of disciplinary actions that included suspensions, ethics probes and external complaints, marking a rare expulsion under the Marcos administration and ending his brief tenure in Congress. Other lawmakers previously expelled from the House include former Negros Oriental Rep. Arnolfo Teves Jr., who was removed in August 2023 amid murder allegations, including the killing of Negros Oriental Gov. Roel Degamo.

Also among those expelled are former Zamboanga del Norte Rep. Romeo Jalosjos Sr., who was convicted of raping a minor, and former Dinagat Islands Rep. Ruben Ecleo Jr., who was ousted over graft charges and the killing of his wife. These cases show how the House has handled serious breaches in the past, though each situation carries its own weight in Philippine political life.

How This Affects Ordinary Filipinos in Cavite

For residents in Cavite's 4th District, the expulsion brings questions about representation and the work that still needs to continue for local communities. Barzaga's time in Congress touched on issues that matter to everyday people, from public accountability to animal welfare concerns that resonated with many Filipinos who follow his posts.

The events highlight the balance Congress must strike between allowing free expression and maintaining order during sessions. As the House moves forward, the focus remains on ensuring that legislative work serves the broader needs of constituents across the country, including those in local government units who rely on steady representation.

Thoughts on Maintaining Decorum in Public Service

The entire episode serves as a reminder of the standards expected from elected officials in the Philippines. Repeated actions that disrupt proceedings can lead to serious consequences, as seen in this case. Communities across the nation watch these developments closely because they want leaders who prioritize the people's business above personal conflicts.

Through it all, the story connects back to the core values of accountability that many Filipinos hold dear. While Barzaga's tenure ends here, the conversations around ethical conduct in the House will likely continue as new representatives step in to serve their districts.