Representative Kiko Barzaga announced he will not attend the upcoming hearings of the House Committee on Ethics and Privileges related to an impeachment complaint filed against him by the National Unity Party (NUP).

In a statement posted on his Facebook page, Barzaga said he is unconcerned about threats of expulsion from the House. He criticized Congress for allegedly focusing on destroying the lives of ordinary Filipinos rather than addressing substantive issues.

The hearing is set to begin next week, according to House Committee Chairman Representative JC Abalos of the 4P’s Party-list. The proceedings stem from Barzaga’s allegation that billionaire businessman Enrique Razon bribed the NUP to support former House Speaker Martin Romualdez in the previous midterm elections.

Barzaga’s defiance signals a tense confrontation ahead, as the committee moves to investigate the impeachment complaint despite the lawmaker’s refusal to participate.