Cavite Congressman Barzaga Hit with Sedition, Rebellion Complaints
Cavite 4th District Representative Kiko Barzaga, known for his provocative social media presence, now faces serious criminal charges including inciting to sedition and rebellion, filed by the Philippine National Police's Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG).
The neophyte lawmaker confirmed on his Facebook page that he received subpoenas from the Quezon City prosecutor's office, with preliminary investigations scheduled for November 18 and 25. The complaints appear connected to his online activities under the Cybercrime Prevention Act of 2012.
From Online Provocateur to Legal Trouble
Barzaga gained notoriety for his frequent "shitposting" on social media, often targeting President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. and other government officials. His alignment with pro-Duterte narratives helped him build a following among supporters of the former president, though Vice President Sara Duterte has distanced herself from his activities.
The young congressman's legal troubles extend beyond these criminal charges. He was recently delisted as an Army reservist due to posts the Armed Forces considered as "insinuating sedition." Additionally, he faces a separate ethics complaint in the House of Representatives for allegedly unethical conduct.
Understanding the Charges
Under Article 142 of the Revised Penal Code, inciting to sedition involves publishing or circulating materials against government authorities that could disturb their official functions. The penalty includes imprisonment and fines up to 2,000 pesos.
Inciting to rebellion, covered under Article 138, carries heavier penalties of up to six years imprisonment for those who encourage others to rebel against the government through speeches, writings, or other means.
Political Context and Implications
The charges against Barzaga reflect a broader pattern in Philippine politics. During the Duterte administration, sedition complaints were frequently used against government critics, including former Senator Antonio Trillanes IV. Now, under President Marcos, similar charges are being filed against Duterte allies.
Earlier this year, Vice President Sara Duterte herself faced sedition and grave threat complaints over her controversial remarks about assassinating President Marcos, First Lady Liza Araneta-Marcos, and Speaker Martin Romualdez.
Intelligence sources suggest Barzaga's activities may have extended beyond social media, with reports of meetings with separatist groups in Mindanao, though specific details remain unclear.
As the preliminary investigation proceeds, Barzaga must submit counter-affidavits to respond to the charges. The case highlights the ongoing tensions between different political factions and the legal consequences of inflammatory rhetoric in the digital age.