Kiko Barzaga: 3 Ways to Pay P110M Damages Claim to Enrique Razon
Representative Francisco “Kiko” Barzaga faces Cyberlibel Lawsuit from Enrique Razon
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Cavite 4th district Representative Francisco “Kiko” Barzaga is currently defending against a cyberlibel lawsuit filed by ports and casino magnate Enrique Razon, seeking P110 million in damages. The suit stems from Barzaga’s social media posts alleging Razon bribed members of the National Unity Party (NUP) to support former House Speaker Martin Romualdez.
The Cyberlibel Complaint
enrique Razon filed the cyberlibel complaint against Barzaga in November 2023, alleging that the representative’s statements on social media were false and defamatory. Manila Bulletin reported that the complaint details specific posts made by barzaga accusing Razon of influencing NUP members to vote in favor of Romualdez during the speakership race. Razon is seeking P50 million in moral damages and P60 million in exemplary damages.
Background: The House Speakership Dispute
The lawsuit arises from the contentious election for the House Speakership in early 2023. Martin Romualdez and Alan Peter Cayetano both vied for the position, leading to a period of political maneuvering and accusations of bribery. Barzaga publicly claimed that Razon offered incentives to NUP lawmakers to secure their support for Romualdez. Rappler detailed the speakership battle, highlighting the role of party alliances and individual lawmakers’ votes.
Barzaga’s Defense and Current Status
As of January 15, 2026, the case is ongoing. Barzaga has maintained his innocence, claiming his statements were based on information he believed to be true and were made in good faith. The Philippine news Agency reported in December 2023 that Barzaga asserted his right to freedom of speech and expressed confidence in the legal process.Recent updates indicate that pre-trial proceedings are underway, with both sides submitting evidence and preparing for potential testimony. no rulings on the merits of the case have been issued as of this date.
- Enrique Razon: Chairman and CEO of bloomberry Resorts and Ports Corporation.
- Francisco “Kiko” Barzaga: Representative of Cavite’s 4th district.
- Martin Romualdez: Former Speaker of the House of Representatives.
- National Unity Party (NUP): A political party in the Philippines.
- cyberlibel: Defined under Republic Act No. 10175, the Cybercrime Prevention Act of 2012. Official Gazette – Republic act No. 10175