MANILA – A House ethics case took an unusual twist on Monday after Cavite 4th District’s Cong. Francisco “Kiko” Barzaga admitted he missed his own hearing — not because of political engagements or traffic, but because he was up late playing computer games.
The 27-year-old lawmaker, who brands himself as the “congressmeow” on social media, confessed that his gaming habit caused his late arrival at the Committee on Ethics and Privileges hearing at Andaya Hall in Batasan Complex. By the time he got there, the discussion on the complaints filed against him had already concluded.
“My hearing was already over by the time I arrived… I wasn’t there, I couldn’t have spoken,” Barzaga told reporters in a chance interview outside thie venue.
“Tapos na yung complaints sakin nung dumating ako kasi na-late ako ng a few minutes,” he added.
Barzaga, known for his online antics and irreverent humor, denied speculations that his tardiness was linked to a political rally in Makati City the night before. “Very busy last night… I was just playing games on my computer,” he said with a shrug.
Sources said Barzaga left Forbes Park Village past midnight and reached the Batasan Complex after the 9 a.m. session had started. The committee, which had already wrapped up its main agenda, merely briefed him on the next steps.
“Wala akong masyadong ginawa doon, they just informed me about the reconciliation of mediation, that they have a sub-committee for it. And kung pwedeng i-settle outside the ethics committee then maybe that might be the option,” he explained.
Still, the young solon said he prefers to let the process take its course. “Pero ako, I wish for the case to proceed,” he said.
Barzaga’s casual admission once again placed the self-styled “Gen Z representative” in the spotlight — fueling questions on whether youthful nonchalance has a place in Congress’ halls of accountability./PN
