Rep. Kiko Barzaga Pushes for Legal Abortion for Rape Victims, Sparks National Debate
Dasmariñas, Cavite — Cavite 4th District Representative Francis “Kiko” Barzaga has ignited a national conversation after publicly declaring his intent to legalize abortion for victims of rape. In a Facebook post dated September 6, Barzaga stated, “I seek to legalize abortion for rape victims,” emphasizing the emotional and psychological toll of forced pregnancies resulting from sexual assault.
Barzaga, currently serving as Assistant Majority Leader in the 20th Congress, expressed concern over the long-term consequences faced by survivors. “It’s disheartening to see people losing their futures due to pregnancies caused by sexual assault,” he wrote. His statement challenges the country’s long-standing legal stance under the Revised Penal Code of 1930, which prohibits abortion in all circumstances—including rape and incest.
The congressman’s proposal has drawn mixed reactions from the public. While some praised his courage to address a deeply sensitive issue, others voiced strong opposition rooted in religious and cultural beliefs. The Philippines, a predominantly Catholic nation, has historically resisted any move to liberalize abortion laws, making Barzaga’s stance both bold and controversial.
Women’s rights advocates and legal experts have long argued that the current law fails to protect survivors of sexual violence. According to various studies, many rape victims resort to unsafe, clandestine procedures, risking their health and lives. Barzaga’s proposal, if formalized into a bill, could mark a significant shift in reproductive rights legislation in the country.
Social media has been abuzz with reactions, with netizens dubbing Barzaga “Congressmeow”—a nickname that has followed him for his quirky online presence. This time, however, the attention is focused not on memes but on a potentially transformative policy. Many are watching closely to see whether Barzaga will follow through with a formal bill in Congress.
As the debate unfolds, lawmakers, advocacy groups, and the public are expected to weigh in on the issue. Barzaga’s move may have opened the door to a long-overdue national dialogue on reproductive justice, one that could reshape the legal and moral landscape of the Philippines.
