A cyberlibel complaint has been filed by business tycoon Enrique Razon Jr. against suspended Congressman Kiko Barzaga. In law, that is allowed. Due process exists for everyone.
But let’s not pretend this is just a libel case.
The moment businessmen step into political spaces—attend political meetings, host power gatherings, influence alignments—they stop being private spectators. They become public actors.
And public actors are questioned.
You don’t get to enjoy proximity to power and then act surprised when scrutiny follows. That’s not persecution—that’s democracy.
If the allegations are false, then prove it.
Not by silencing critics. Not by filing cases to intimidate. But by evidence.
Receipts. Names. Dates. Truth.
Because when lawsuits are used to quiet political speech, especially speech involving public interest, the chilling effect is real—and Filipinos see it.
Congressmen are meant to speak.
Businessmen are used to operating quietly. But once business intersects with governance, silence is no longer a right—it’s a privilege that expires.
So yes, let the courts decide. But we should also insist that the facts come out.
Because if nothing happened, transparency will clear your name. And if something did—no amount of legal muscle should bury it.
In a country long tired of untouchables, many will stand with the one asking questions—not the one demanding silence.
Another day.
Another #RegalPOV
📸 GMA network
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