MANILA — Several lawmakers on Tuesday criticized the House leadership’s decision to suspend Cavite Rep. Elpidio Barzaga Jr., saying the move appeared selective and failed to address allegations involving other legislators.
Barzaga was ordered suspended for alleged violations of House rules, though the chamber has not released full details of the complaint that triggered the sanction. His allies, however, called the penalty “disproportionate” and questioned the timing.
According to lawmakers who spoke on condition of anonymity, the chamber should “deal with more pressing and serious allegations” against other members before penalizing Barzaga.
“Selective discipline weakens the institution,” one solon said. “If the leadership is serious about accountability, it should start with the cases that have been pending for months, some involving misuse of public funds.”
Another lawmaker noted that several ethics complaints filed earlier remain unresolved. “Why is Barzaga being singled out? The public deserves to know the standards being applied,” the member added.
House leaders have yet to respond to the criticism but previously said disciplinary actions are based on established rules and the findings of the ethics panel.
Barzaga, for his part, has maintained that he will respect the process but urged colleagues to ensure fairness and transparency in all investigations.