Flood Control Corruption Sparks Shakeup
Public scrutiny over alleged corruption in flood control projects intensified, sparking protests and political shakeups. Last week, House Speaker Martin Romualdez resigned amid the controversy.
Cavite 4th District Representative Kiko Barzaga, a 27-year-old Gen Z lawmaker, captured attention by abstaining from key votes and confronting Romualdez outside his office. On Kapuso Mo, Jessica Soho, Barzaga said he teased the former Speaker: “Bye-bye, crocodile,” celebrating Romualdez’s departure after Barzaga called for an investigation. He accused Romualdez of either stealing funds or allowing misappropriation, insisting authorities must hold him accountable.
Barzaga, son of the late Congressman Elpidio Barzaga Jr. and current Dasmariñas City Mayor Jennifer Austria-Barzaga, admitted his political lineage but stressed he remains clean. He defended his social media posts and playful behavior, explaining that cosplay events and harmless interactions fueled the criticism.
Barzaga rejected claims questioning his mental fitness, emphasizing the risks of challenging powerful figures like Romualdez and President Marcos. “Only an out-of-control person would dare do such a thing. But sometimes, it takes mistaken people to change corrupt systems,” he said.
Meanwhile, Kabataan Partylist Representative-elect Renee Co highlighted the fresh perspectives Gen Z lawmakers bring while navigating entrenched political dynasties. She urged organized, constructive action to drive systemic reform. Co encouraged lawmakers to engage with mass organizations, understand public needs, and resist elite dominance.
Both Barzaga and Co. called on Congress to enact genuine reform, strengthen accountability for corruption, and act swiftly to prevent abuses in government projects.
