House Ethics Committee to Hear Barzaga Complaint Next Week, Abalos Confirms
The House Committee on Ethics and Privileges is scheduled to deliberate on an ethics complaint against Dasmarinas Cavite Representative Kiko Barzaga in the upcoming week, as confirmed by Committee Chairman Representative JC Abalos. This development follows a privilege speech delivered by Manila 2nd District Representative Rolando Valeriano last Tuesday, which called for stricter sanctions against Barzaga due to alleged repeated violations of House Rules.
Hearing Details and Barzaga's Response
According to Abalos, the committee will formally notify Cavite 4th District Representative Kiko Barzaga and provide him with an opportunity to present his side during the scheduled hearing. This proceeding is directly linked to the privilege speech by Valeriano, who urged for more severe penalties against Barzaga. It is worth recalling that in December, Barzaga faced a 60-day suspension for alleged "disorderly behavior," highlighting ongoing disciplinary concerns within the legislative body.
Multiple Ethics Complaints and Confidentiality
Abalos revealed that aside from Barzaga, several other members of the House of Representatives are currently facing ethics complaints. However, he declined to disclose specific names, citing confidentiality protocols. This statement came in response to inquiries about whether an ethics complaint had been filed against Batangas Representative Leandro Leviste, underscoring the committee's commitment to maintaining privacy in such matters.
Potential Penalties and Committee Limitations
Abalos clarified that lawmakers could face more severe penalties if they continue to violate established rules. He emphasized that sanctions are not limited to simple suspensions. The most severe punishment that can be imposed on a House member is expulsion from the House of Representatives. Nonetheless, Abalos also highlighted that the committee's authority does not extend to recommending perpetual disqualification or a lifetime ban from holding any government position. He noted that the committee's mandate has clear limitations, focusing solely on penalties permitted under existing House rules.
This upcoming hearing marks a critical step in addressing disciplinary issues within the Philippine House of Representatives, as the Ethics Committee prepares to assess Barzaga's case and potentially set precedents for future conduct among legislators.
