Cavite 4th District Representative Francisco “Kiko” Barzaga has officially aligned himself with the opposition, taking his oath as a member of the Partido Demokratiko Pilipino (PDP) led by former President Rodrigo Duterte.
Barzaga documented the ceremony at the PDP Headquarters in Sta. Mesa, Manila, through a series of social media posts.
In a public declaration of his new political direction, the lawmaker shared:
“Congressman Kiko Barzaga is now an official member of the PDP-Laban! #Duterte2028”
The move marks a significant departure from his political roots. Barzaga was previously a member of the National Unity Party (NUP), currently headed by Antipolo City 1st District Representative Ronaldo Puno. His late father, the esteemed lawmaker Elpidio Barzaga Jr., was a prominent figure and stalwart within the NUP for years.
However, the younger Barzaga’s tenure with the NUP ended in expulsion following a series of controversial social media activities. His online presence has been a recurring point of contention within the House of Representatives, where he has already served two separate 60-day suspensions for “conduct unbecoming of a member” and “disorderly behavior.”
Despite his new party affiliation, Barzaga continues to face significant disciplinary pressure in Congress. The House Committee on Ethics and Privileges is currently deliberating on a third complaint against him, which could lead to further sanctions or even expulsion from the chamber.
By joining PDP and utilizing the “Duterte 2028” hashtag, Barzaga appears to be cementing his role as a vocal critic of the current administration, even as he navigates the ongoing ethics probes into his legislative conduct.