Deputy Majority Leader Lanao del Sur 1st district Rep. Zia Alonto Adiong blasted on Thursday, Aug. 21 Baguio City Mayor Benjamin “Benjie” Magalong for describing the House of Representatives' inquiry on flood control projects as “moro-moro".

“As a Muslim, I take offense at the casual use of the term ‘moro-moro’ to describe an investigation. Words carry history. We can debate corruption with vigor, but we should never trivialize the struggles of Moro communities by turning that term into an insult,” Adiong said in a statement.

Adiong stressed that the phrase “moro-moro” carries historical baggage for Muslim communities because it traces back to a Spanish-era folk drama that pitted “Christians” against “Moros,” a genre whose legacy is intertwined with colonial stereotypes and long-standing prejudice.

He added that while the term has entered common parlance to mean a sham or staged act, many Muslims still find it insensitive in public discourse.

"Be sensitive in your language,” Adiong told the controversial mayor, who had been at the forefront in public attacks on House members in the past few months.

Magalong's latest tirades have included allegations that congressmen were involved in flood control projects. The mayor has also accused some legislators of receiving sizeable kickbacks from contractors.

“If you believe some House members are guilty, name them and present the proof. Do not condemn the entire House...When the whole institution is attacked, the innocent are dragged with the guilty, and the public loses sight of the facts we all need,” Adiong continued.

The Mindanaoan added: "Hindi kailangang bastusin ang institusyon para umusad ang katotohanan. Trabaho ng Kongreso ang magtanong at mag-audit bilang bahagi ng oversight powers. Kung may kasalanan, papanagutin."

(There is no need to disrespect the institution for the truth to move forward. It is Congress’ duty to ask questions and conduct audits as part of its oversight powers. If there is wrongdoing, accountability must follow.)

The House leader encouraged Magalong to bring forth documents, mention names, and help secure convictions if warranted.

“We welcome testimony under oath, in an open forum, with complete documentary support. That is the most direct way to protect public funds, clean up the system and ensure that every peso truly prevents flooding rather than lining pockets,” Adiong said.

“But let us raise the standard of our public conversation. Kung may ebidensya, ilatag. Kung may salita, ingatan (If there is evidence, lay it out. If you have something to say, say it carefully). We owe it to the people to pursue the truth with precision, and we owe it to our institutions to pursue it with respect,” Adiong further said.