House Committee on Ethics and Privileges Chairman, 4Ps Party-list Rep. JC Abalos, confirmed a hearing next week on possible new penalties against suspended Cavite 4th District Rep. Francisco “Kiko” Barzaga.
In a press briefing, Abalos acknowledged the plenary motion adopted the previous day directing the ethics panel to investigate Barzaga’s conduct during his 60-day suspension without pay.
“We have a scheduled hearing next week, and the plenary also required Representative Barzaga to attend,” Abalos told reporters.
“The respondent will also receive notice and be given the opportunity to present his side and evidence,” he added.
Barzaga responded in a Facebook post: “I will be ignoring the summons of the Ethics Committee. Expel me if they want, but Congress has done nothing but destroy the lives of the Filipino people.”
The 27-year-old lawmaker, suspended last Dec. 1 for disorderly conduct, is expected to return to work next week.
The new investigation was prompted by Manila 2nd District Rep. Ronaldo Valeriano’s privilege speech Tuesday, criticizing Barzaga’s continued inflammatory posts during his suspension.
Valeriano is seeking another 60-day suspension.
Abalos said complainants may also submit additional documents.
The harshest penalty the panel can recommend is expulsion. (Ellson Quismorio)
