Malacañang has branded Cavite 4th District Representative Kiko Barzaga’s call to remove President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. from office as “inciting to sedition,” following his recent arrest over cyber libel charges.
Speaking at a press briefing on Wednesday, Communications Undersecretary and Palace Press Officer Claire Castro emphasized that Barzaga is aware of who filed the complaints against him, noting that he had previously apologized for his remarks.
“So, paano niya masasabi na ang Pangulo ang nagpakulong sa kanya. Hindi siya sinasampahan ng Pangulo ng anumang kaso kahit anong klaseng paninira ang ginagawa niya,” Castro said.
When asked if Barzaga’s statements could be considered inciting to sedition, Castro gave a direct response:
“Obviously, yes.”
Castro further rebuked the lawmaker, accusing him of spreading misinformation and destabilizing narratives.
“Sa mga ganitong klaseng tao po, alam natin, may mga taong fake news peddler, obstructionist, destabilizer, sakim sa kapangyarihan. Itong mga taong ito ay hindi na natin po papaharapin sa salamin para tingnan ang kanilang konsensiya dahil wala silang konsensiya.”
Barzaga surrendered to authorities on Monday night after a warrant of arrest was issued against him in connection with cyber libel complaints. He later posted bail at around 10:25 p.m. and was released.
The complaints were filed by businessman Enrique Razon, Antipolo City 1st District Representative Ronaldo Puno, and Manila 2nd District Representative Rolando Valeriano. The case stems from Barzaga’s social media post alleging that members of the National Unity Party received bribes in exchange for backing former House Speaker Martin Romualdez.