Vice President Sara Duterte on Wednesday backed former Cavite 4th District Representative Kiko Barzaga following his expulsion from the House of Representatives, saying that ‘being different is okay.’
In her message, Duterte praised Barzaga for standing by his principles despite criticism and political pressure, emphasizing the importance of integrity and remaining true to one’s beliefs.
“Being different is okay. It takes grit to be yourself in a world that rewards conformity. Not everyone will understand your choices or the path you take, and that’s okay. What matters is staying true to who you are and what you believe in,” Duterte wrote.
The Vice President also reflected on her own experiences of being criticized for refusing to conform.
“Ako man ay itinuturing na kakaiba,“ Duterte said.
“Ilang beses na akong tinawag na baliw, bobo, at kung anu-ano pa dahil lamang sa pagtangging sumunod sa nakasanayan,” she emphasized.
Duterte further described Barzaga as “different” because he had allegedly refused to engage in corruption and wrongdoing.
“You are different because you have never been convicted of child abuse, never brought home ‘maletas’ of public funds, never allowed cocaine and alcohol to flow from your office, and never said yes to corruption and oppression,” she added.
The Vice President also encouraged Barzaga to continue standing firm even if it meant standing alone.
“Walking alone is okay, too," she said.
“It takes courage to charge forward even if no one will follow you. Your resolve is a daily reminder that character matters more than conformity. The strength you show inspires more Filipinos than you may ever know,” the Vice President added.
Duterte ended her message on a lighter note by advising Barzaga to take Vitamin C and drink plenty of water because he was reportedly suffering from colds.
“Mahal ka ng Diyos, mga Caviteño, mga Dabawenyo, mga agila at ng mga pusa,” she said.
Lawmakers voted on Tuesday night to expel Barzaga from the roll of House members over allegations of disorderly behavior, unparliamentary conduct, and other violations, in a decisive plenary vote of 265 in favor, 14 against, and 8 abstentions.
