Vice President Sara Duterte’s Open Letter for Francisco “Kiko” Barzaga

by Master JJ

Vice President Sara Duterte publicly expressed support for former Cavite 4th District Representative Francisco “Kiko” Barzaga through an open letter released on June 3, 2026, one day after his expulsion from the House of Representatives.

The letter, addressed directly to Barzaga and posted on social media, praised him for remaining true to his beliefs despite criticism and political challenges.

Duterte opened the message by explaining that she did not have Barzaga’s personal contact number and therefore chose to communicate through a public Facebook post.

She pointed out that being different should not be viewed negatively and encouraged Barzaga to continue embracing his individuality.

The Vice President stated that “Being different is okay.”

According to Duterte, remaining true to one’s principles requires strength and determination especially in an environment where many people are expected to conform to popular opinions and accepted norms.

She said that not everyone would understand a person’s decisions and life choices but maintained that authenticity and conviction are more important than public approval.

Duterte also shared her own experiences of being criticized for refusing to follow traditional expectations.

She stated that “Ako man ay itinuturing na kakaiba.”

The Vice President further revealed that she had been called various names in the past because of her refusal to conform to what others expected from her.

In the letter, Duterte defended Barzaga against criticisms and highlighted qualities that she believed distinguished him from other public officials.

She stated that Barzaga had never been convicted of child abuse and had never been involved in the misuse of public funds.

Duterte wrote that “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.”

The Vice President also encouraged Barzaga to remain courageous even if he found himself standing alone in his political beliefs.

She described his actions as an example of personal integrity and determination.

Duterte stated that “Walking alone is okay, too.”

She added that moving forward without the support of others requires courage and commitment to one’s values.

According to Duterte, Barzaga’s willingness to stand by his convictions serves as an inspiration to many Filipinos.

She wrote that “It takes courage to charge forward even if no one will follow you.”

The letter also contained a personal message regarding Barzaga’s health condition.

The Vice President stated that “Alam kong may sipon ka ngayon.”

She advised him to take Vitamin C regularly and drink plenty of water in order to recover quickly.

She also offered words of encouragement and concern for his well-being beyond politics.

Toward the end of the letter, Duterte expressed her belief that Barzaga remains loved and supported by various groups despite his removal from office.

Duterte wrote that “Mahal ka ng Diyos, mga Caviteño, mga Dabawenyo, mga agila at ng mga pusa.”

The message concluded with Duterte extending her respect and signing the letter using her official title as Vice President of the Philippines.

The publication of the letter came shortly after the House of Representatives voted to expel Barzaga from Congress.

Courtesy: https://www.facebook.com/share/p/1FYLKvnDMG/