Cavite Representative Kiko Barzaga Faces Criminal Complaints for Online Activities
Cavite 4th District Representative Kiko Barzaga, known for his provocative social media presence and criticism of the Marcos administration, now faces serious criminal charges including inciting to sedition and rebellion.
The neophyte lawmaker confirmed on his Facebook page that he received a subpoena from the Quezon City prosecutor's office, with preliminary investigations scheduled for November 18 and 25. The complaints were filed by the Philippine National Police's Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG).
From Online Provocateur to Legal Trouble
Barzaga gained online prominence through frequent controversial posts targeting President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. and other government officials. His social media strategy effectively aligned him with pro-Duterte narratives, though Vice President Sara Duterte has distanced herself from his activities.
The charges relate to Section 6 of Republic Act No. 10175, the Cybercrime Prevention Act of 2012, suggesting the alleged violations occurred through online activities.
Legal Framework and Penalties
Under Article 142 of the Revised Penal Code, inciting to sedition carries penalties of prision correccional in its maximum period and fines up to 2,000 pesos for publishing materials that could disturb government officials in their duties.
Meanwhile, inciting to rebellion under Article 138 carries heavier penalties of prision mayor in its minimum period for encouraging others toward rebellious acts through various forms of communication.
Military and Congressional Consequences
The legal troubles compound Barzaga's recent setbacks. The Armed Forces delisted him as an Army reservist due to posts deemed to be "insinuating sedition." He also faces a separate ethics complaint in the House of Representatives for potentially seditious statements.
Intelligence sources suggest additional concerns about Barzaga's alleged meetings with separatist groups, though specific details remain unclear.
Political Context and Precedent
The charges reflect a broader pattern of sedition complaints being used across different administrations. The Duterte government frequently employed such charges against critics, including former Senator Antonio Trillanes IV.
Under the current administration, the tables have turned. The National Bureau of Investigation filed similar complaints against Vice President Duterte over her assassination remarks against President Marcos, First Lady Liza Araneta Marcos, and Speaker Martin Romualdez.
Former officials from the Duterte era, including lawyer Israelito Torreon and former anti-insurgency spokesperson Lorraine Badoy, have also faced sedition charges under the Marcos administration.
The case highlights the ongoing political tensions between supporters of the current and previous administrations, playing out through both social media battles and the judicial system.