Deputy Speaker and Antipolo City 1st District Representative Ronaldo “Ronnie” Puno has called on the House Committee on Ethics and Privileges to set a firm example by disciplining Cavite 4th District Representative Francisco “Kiko” Barzaga, warning that his behavior could inspire similar antics among other lawmakers.
Puno, along with 28 other complainants, attended the ethics panel hearing on Monday, October 13, where Barzaga also appeared—albeit late.
“We should remind him about the standards of human behavior,” Puno said in a chance interview.
“He doesn’t believe he did anything wrong, which clearly shows his standards are much lower than the average person.”
The visibly frustrated Deputy Speaker emphasized the need for accountability within the House.
“I believe the ethics committee should teach him a lesson. That kind of behavior is not desirable, not acceptable—especially for someone holding public office,” he added.
When asked what sanctions he would recommend for the Gen Z lawmaker, Puno said the issue goes beyond punishment. “It’s not just about imposing penalties. It’s about reinforcing the values and conduct expected of members of Congress.”
“I’m not really interested in the sanction as much as the establishment of standards,” he noted.
“Kasi kung gayahin siya ng sampung congressman na puro ganun ang ginawa sa mga Facebook nila, eh kawawa naman ang institusyon di ba? Maba-baboy na talaga. So dapat pangaralan yan eh, hindi tama yung ginagawa niya,” said Puno.
Most of the complainants present were members of Barzaga’s former political party, the National Unity Party (NUP). Puno chairs NUP.
Barzaga has taunted and badmouthed various government officials on his Facebook, including President Marcos, former House Speaker Martin Romualdez, Senate President Vicente “Tito” Sotto III, Puno, and his fellow congressman amid public’s anger over the flood control projects mess.
Puno has also taken personal offense to the 27-year-old’s objectification of women–which the latter casually refers to as “eabab”–on his social media.
The NUP complaint outlines four serious causes of action against Barzaga: (1) violation of the House Code of Conduct; (2) violation of Republic Act (RA) No. 6713, the Code of Conduct and Ethical Standards for Public Officials and Employees; (3) unethical conduct that potentially violates Article 142 of the Revised Penal Code (Inciting to Sedition); and (4) conduct prejudicial to the best interest of the service. (Ellson Quismorio)
