Quickfire questions with Kiko Barzaga
The congressman from Dasmariñas, Cavite gets candid about his personal life
Published Nov 17, 2025 12:10 pm
Among today’s rising young politicians, Dasmariñas, Cavite congressman Kiko Barzaga has emerged as one of the most popular. In recent months, he has been making headlines—and winning the hearts of many Filipinos—with a mix of playful charm, quirky humor, and a refreshing yet resolute approach to public service.
In a conversation with Manila Bulletin Lifestyle, we asked Kiko about his views on so-called “Nepo babies” and the public scrutiny directed at children of politicians. According to him, Filipinos calling out political privilege has become, in his view, a powerful tool in holding leaders accountable. While he acknowledged that such criticism can take a toll on the wellbeing of the young, he believes it reflects the public’s urgent frustration over corruption.
Kiko with Congressman Tobby Tiangco
“It’s actually the most successful method of fighting corruption. You target their weakest point which is their children,” he said. “Once the average Filipino starts bullying their kids in social media or in school, those corrupt politicians will start fearing for the future.”
Pressed on the ethical concerns surrounding this approach, Kiko argued that institutional battles against corruption often feel unwinnable for ordinary citizens.
“We don’t choose what’s the most moral… because that’s already doomed to fail. If we fight them in courts… we will lose. But if we fight them outside of the government, then that’s very effective,” he said. “We are no longer in the position where we can keep drawing moral lines… We’re in the position where we must keep fighting corruption otherwise the whole country will be destroyed.”
On a lighter note, the animal-loving lawmaker gamely took on a round of quickfire questions, opening up about everything from his favorite food to his lovelife status.
Congressman Kiko Barzaga
How do your friends usually describe you in three words?
Meow-meow, aw-aw, and posa cat.
What's something people would be surprised to learn about you?
I'm okay with dancing.
Early bird or night owl?
Night owl. Actually night cat.
Coffee or tea?
Tea.
What tea?
Anything. Usually, for mornings, I have things like green tea, oolong, and earl grey. And then for regular days, fruit teas.
What's the first app you open in the morning?
Messenger.
What's the funniest thing that ever happened to you in Congress?
Congress, yung kay Sandro Marcos.
Who are your barkada in Congress?
Ang dami. Si Tobby Tiangco, Leviste, si San Fernando. There are plenty. I made plenty of friends in Congress.
If Congress had a talent show, what would be your performance?
Magic. I'm also a magician. May mga magic tricks ako. May mga props ako doon sa magic tricks.
What's your favorite local destination?
Dasmariñas, Cavite.
What place in Dasmariñas would you recommend to tourists?
Jollibee, Daily Chef. There are also lots of restaurants on Vista Mall, SM, and Promenade.
What was your favorite subject back in school?
Physical education. I'm not good at sports. It’s just I love it because there was no homework for this subject.
What's your comfort food?
Ramen
Do you cook?
A little.
If you have a visitor, what dish will you serve?
The Kikoman’s special spicy sinangag.
What was the last book you read or podcast you listened to?
“Cosmos” by Carl Sagan.
How do you define happiness?
Whatever makes you smile.
Single or taken?
Single and ready to mingle.
What characteristics are you looking for in a future partner?
Pretty with fair skin and bangs.
Who's your celebrity crush?
Bini. All of them.