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In a sharp escalation of political tensions, the National Unity Party (NUP), the second-largest party in the House of Representatives, announced Tuesday it will pursue legal action against former member Representative Kiko Barzaga of Dasmariñas over allegations that NUP members accepted bribes from prominent businessman Enrique Razon.
House Deputy Speaker and NUP chairman Ronaldo “Ronnie” Puno issued a strongly-worded statement in response to Barzaga’s January 9 Facebook post, which has since been deleted. The controversial post claimed that “NUP congressmen received bribes from Enrique Razon in various gatherings in Solaire prior to the 2025 elections in exchange for supporting Speaker Martin Romualdez [of Leyte].”
“The allegations are baseless, reckless, and malicious. The Speaker ran unopposed. There was no contest. To claim that bribes were paid in a situation where there was no contest at all defies logic,” Puno stated, emphasizing the apparent contradiction in Barzaga’s accusations.
The dispute carries added complexity given that Barzaga’s late father, former Dasmariñas Representative Elpidio Barzaga, was among NUP’s founding members. Puno highlighted this relationship in his statement, noting, “We will see him in court, since he chose to malign all members of the NUP—a party once led by his own father and one that he himself joined.”
Puno did not mince words about the severity of the allegations and their consequences, stating, “To turn around and accuse the NUP of criminal conduct without evidence shows a reckless and deeply irresponsible contempt for the truth. I will be filing cases against him.” He added that other NUP members targeted by the accusations would also pursue individual legal action.
When contacted for comment, Representative Barzaga remained defiant, insisting his allegations have merit. “I will reveal the evidence once I return to Congress,” he told GMA News Online, suggesting the controversy may intensify in coming weeks.
The backdrop to this political confrontation is the recent leadership changes in the House of Representatives. In July 2025, Romualdez was reelected Speaker with overwhelming support, receiving 269 votes after his nomination was endorsed by major political parties including the Party-list Coalition, Lakas-CMD, Nationalist People’s Coalition, Nacionalista Party, National Unity Party, and Partido Federal ng Pilipinas.
However, Romualdez’s tenure as Speaker was cut short in September 2025 following allegations linking him to irregular flood control projects. He was succeeded by Representative Faustino “Bojie” Dy III of Isabela, a member of the Partido Federal ng Pilipinas.
The controversy surrounding Romualdez deepened when both the Independent Commission for Infrastructure and the Department of Public Works and Highways recommended filing plunder and graft complaints against him before the Office of the Ombudsman. Despite these recommendations, the Ombudsman has yet to formally file charges with the Sandiganbayan, the Philippines’ anti-graft court.
Throughout these proceedings, Romualdez has maintained his innocence, stating that his “conscience is clear” regarding the accusations.
Barzaga’s resignation from the NUP came amid swirling coup rumors against Romualdez in early September 2025, suggesting possible connections between internal party politics and the broader power shifts in the House.
The unfolding legal battle between Barzaga and the NUP represents more than a personal dispute; it highlights the fractious nature of Philippine politics and raises questions about political loyalties, corruption allegations, and the integrity of legislative processes during periods of leadership transition.
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7 Comments
Interesting development in Philippine politics. It’s concerning to see such serious allegations being made, even if they appear questionable. Transparency and accountability are crucial in any democratic system.
I agree, the contradictions in the claims do raise questions about their credibility. It will be important to see how this legal case unfolds and what evidence is presented on both sides.
This dispute raises valid concerns about potential corruption in the Philippine political and business spheres. Transparent due process will be essential to restore public confidence, particularly for the mining industry.
The mining industry is often a sensitive area prone to political controversies. This case highlights the need for strong governance and independent oversight to ensure fairness and integrity. Careful monitoring of the situation will be important.
Absolutely. Unsubstantiated claims can be very damaging, so I hope a thorough and impartial investigation can shed light on the facts and determine the appropriate course of action.
This appears to be a messy political dispute with accusations flying back and forth. While the details are unclear, it’s important that any potential wrongdoing is properly investigated through the legal system. Miners and investors will be watching closely.
You’re right, this case could have broader implications for the mining and resources sector in the Philippines. Maintaining public trust and a stable political environment is crucial for attracting investment.