Barzaga renews call for Marcos resignation at UPI anti-corruption rally

Cavite Representative Francisco “Kiko” Barzaga repeatedly urged President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. to step down, delivering the call before crowds gathered at the United People’s Initiative (UPI) rally against corruption on Monday at the Edsa People Power Monument in Quezon City. Addressing rally participants, Barzaga argued that the country “cannot endure” another three years under the current administration, insisting that stepping down would be “for the future of the Philippines.” His appearance came despite earlier remarks from UPI Secretary-General Retired Capt. Rey Valeros, who said during the rally’s opening day on Sunday that politicians would not be allowed to use the stage for partisan purposes. Valeros warned that organizers would cut off any speaker who pushed a political agenda, stating they may speak only about national issues. In his speech, Barzaga also referenced former Ako-Bicol Rep. Elizaldy “Zaldy” Co’s recent video allegations, calling the exposé “good news.” In the video, Co accused President Marcos and former House Speaker Martin Romualdez of directing questionable budget insertions, then claimed President Marcos received approximately P25 billion. Co had earlier resurfaced online to defend his claims, which have fueled ongoing corruption debates and investigations. Barzaga, meanwhile, is already facing criminal complaints for alleged incitement to sedition over the violent September 21 anti-corruption rally and a separate protest in Forbes Park on October 21, with both cases now lodged before the Quezon City Prosecutor’s Office.