03/12/2025
PAHAYAG NG OVP!
STATEMENT ON THE SUSPENSION OF REP. BARZAGA
December 3, 2025
The suspension of Rep. Kiko Barzaga is part of a series of efforts to silence voices that speak uncomfortable truths.
This is not the first time that critics of the government have been met with punitive action. In less than a year, we witnessed the kidnapping of a former President and the filing of inciting to sedition charges against several individuals—including myself—simply because we dared to question those in power.
In a nation that takes pride in democracy, dissent should not be treated as a threat. The right to speak freely is not granted by those in power; it is a fundamental right guaranteed and protected by our very Constitution.
Karapatan ito ng bawat Pilipino, lalo na ng mga lingkod-bayan na may tungkuling magsiwalat ng katotohanan. Kaya kung ang isang halal ng bayan tulad ni Cong. Barzaga ay maaaring patahimikin, paano pa ang mga ordinaryong Pilipinong wala namang kapangyarihan o posisyon?
Democracy demands courage. Democracy demands the freedom to speak and the freedom to question.
I stand with every Filipino who refuses to be intimidated.
Shukran.
SARA Z. DUTERTE
Vice President of the Philippines
