Barzaga may face 2nd ethics complaint

MANILA, Philippines — Cavite 4th district Rep. Francisco Barzaga could be looking at an extended suspension from the House of Representatives in case a second ethics complaint is filed against him for publicly accusing a business tycoon of bribery without proof.

Tingog party-list Rep. Jude Acidre hinted that members of the National Unity Party, led by deputy speaker Ronnie Puno are bent on filing another ethics complaint against Barzaga.

Barzaga is facing a complaint for cyber libel filed before the Makati prosecutor's office.

Barzaga’s suspension will lapse in early February.

“I’ve heard that they have the intention of filing because I heard them say ‘see you in court.’ So, maybe it’s more than just an ethics complaint,” Acidre said.

The possibility of a second ethics complaint surfaced as Puno pushed for stronger action against Barzaga, including a bid for his expulsion from the House.

Puno argued that Barzaga’s continued public statements and social media posts have escalated the dispute, warning that he could face multiple cases beyond the walls of Congress, including “over 40 libel complaints” linked to his allegations against fellow lawmakers.