Cavite 4th District Representative Francisco Barzaga, widely known online as “Congressmeow Kiko Barzaga,” has been recommended for delisting from the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) Reserve Force following a military investigation into his social media statements suggesting that the AFP, Philippine National Police (PNP), and reservists would join the September 21, 2025 protest and had lost trust in the President—remarks deemed a grave offense of misconduct.
Philippine Army spokesperson Col. Louie Dema-ala confirmed the recommendation, stating, “He is recommended for delisting after a comprehensive inquiry. The recommendation has been forwarded through the proper channels for final action.”
Barzaga, who gained online popularity for his eccentric persona and affection for cats, was enlisted as a private on January 10, 2025, under the National Capital Region Regional Community Defense Group (NCRRDG), a unit of the Army Reserve Command (ARESCOM).
In November 2024, he posted photos on social media showing his completion of the Basic Citizen Military Training (BCMT), the entry-level program for joining the AFP Reserve Force.
“His speeches and utterances on social media insinuating that the AFP, Philippine National Police, and reservists will join the protest on 21 September 2025, declaring the loss of trust in the President by the AFP and PNP, and the likes, constitute misconduct,” Dema-ala said.
“The decision is limited to Rep. Barzaga’s status within the Army’s reserve force and has no impact on his rights as a civilian or elected official,” he added.
Barzaga has been a vocal critic of President Marcos Jr. and the entire administration when the alleged corruption in flood control projects came to light.
On social media, the Army monitored posts by Barzaga claiming that active and reserve officers of the military and the PNP have lost their trust in the Commander-in-Chief.
The Army clarified that active reservists are prohibited from participating in protests while carrying their status as members of the AFP.
Reservists are not allowed to join demonstrations if they are in uniform, use the name of the AFP or their unit, represent the AFP in any capacity, or if the protest involves political activity or calls against the government. (Martin Sadongdong)
