Five Lawmakers Oppose Suspension of Cavite Rep. Barzaga Amid Ethics Committee Decision

In a notable dissent, five members of the House of Representatives voiced their opposition to the recommendation by the House Committee on Ethics and Privileges to suspend Cavite Representative Francisco Barzaga for 60 days without salary and allowances.

The dissenting lawmakers include SAGIP party-list Rep. Rodante Marcoleta, Kamanggagawa party-list Rep. Eli San Fernando, Bagong Henerasyon party-list Rep. Robert Nazal, Quezon City Rep. Bong Suntay, and Batangas Rep. Leandro Legarda Leviste.

Rep. Marcoleta defended Barzaga, arguing that his social media posts represented an exercise of freedom of expression. He cited Voltaire’s philosophy on tolerance and parliamentary privilege, emphasizing that lawmakers must be able to speak openly on matters of public interest without fear of reprisal.

He stated, "Honorable Barzaga’s statements directed at corruption within the government fall squarely within the most urgent category of political expression. To penalize him for raising concerns on corruption, a matter the Constitution instructs Congress to check, challenges the very principle of parliamentary privilege."

Rep. San Fernando acknowledged that lawmakers must adhere to high ethical standards but stressed that such expectations should not hinder free speech and robust debate, especially on national issues. He questioned the rigidity of ethical standards, asking whether subjective judgments should override the electorate’s will.

Rep. Nazal described Barzaga’s behavior as "inappropriate, crass, and unbecoming of a member of Congress" but argued that a 60-day suspension was excessive. He suggested that a formal reprimand would have been a more fitting disciplinary measure.

Batangas Rep. Leviste criticized the Ethics Committee for prioritizing Barzaga’s case over other more serious allegations facing the House. Although he did not name specific individuals, his comments appeared to reference a fellow Batangas representative previously accused of misconduct concerning infrastructure projects.

Leviste remarked, "While heavier issues demand our full attention, it seems Congress is quick to pass judgment on one member while neglecting graver accusations against others. This sends a damaging message that corruption is tolerated, which tarnishes the institution’s reputation."

During the plenary session held on Monday, the House voted 249 in favor of upholding the Ethics Committee’s recommendation, with 11 members abstaining.

This development highlights ongoing tensions within the legislature regarding discipline, free speech, and ethical standards among lawmakers.