Manila: The National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) has submitted an ethics complaint to the House Committee on Ethics and Privileges regarding Cavite 4th District Representative Francisco 'Kiko' Barzaga's social media activities during a recent Senate shooting incident.
According to Philippines News Agency, the NBI alleges that Barzaga posted false information implicating its personnel in an alleged assassination plot against senators, potentially leading to criminal charges. NBI Director Melvin Matibag personally filed the complaint, emphasizing the duty to protect the bureau's integrity rather than personal grievances.
Matibag stated that nine posts from Barzaga's account were confirmed to suggest that NBI agents had entered the Senate with harmful intentions. The NBI is also considering criminal complaints under Article 154 of the Revised Penal Code for the dissemination of false information and other potential offenses.
The NBI plans to finalize the criminal complaints by next week, with Matibag advocating for severe disciplinary measures under House rules, including possible expulsion from Congress. He dismissed concerns of infringing on freedom of expression, stating that constitutional rights do not protect criminal behavior.
The ethics complaint is filed amidst increased vigilance over misinformation related to the Senate incident. The House ethics panel will evaluate the necessity of disciplinary action, while any NBI-filed criminal charges will undergo preliminary review by prosecutors.
