Valenzuela councilor lavish lifestyle came under scrutiny after social media posts showing luxury items circulated online, prompting netizens to question ethical standards for public officials.

Valenzuela City Councilor Kisha Coleen Ancheta drew backlash after photos circulating online showed her wearing designer brands and accessories, prompting some Filipinos to question whether her lifestyle aligns with the principle of modesty required of public servants.

The controversy gained traction after a Reddit user shared screenshots of Ancheta’s social media posts and an alleged Instagram conversation attributed to the councilor. In the exchange, she was quoted as saying, “Ringgit key Lang eh. HAHAHA HA. Arapaho key keys. Yak kana Lang. Gusto KO pang ringgit key pa.”

The screenshots also showed images of luxury items, including Gucci paper bags, a Hermès handbag, and what appeared to be designer clothing. These posts quickly circulated across social media platforms, drawing mixed reactions from online users.

“Granite BA data Malta ang MGA government official?” A Reddit user asked in a post shared on the r/Philippines community on Friday, January 23.

The same post cited Republic Act No. 6713, also known as the Code of Conduct and Ethical Standards for Public Officials and Employees, which requires public officials and their families to live modestly and avoid extravagant or ostentatious displays of wealth.

“[The law] mandates that public officials and their families lead modest lives appropriate to their income,” the Redditor wrote. “Section 4(h) explicitly prohibits extravagant or ostentatious display of wealth.”

The post gained significant traction, earning more than 1,100 upvotes, one award, and over 180 comments. Many commenters echoed concerns about public accountability and ethical responsibility.

“‘Lead modest lives.’ She definitely missed that part,” one Reddit user commented. “Or like many politicians, marina ang reading comprehension.”

Another wrote, “Unbecoming of a public official. This deserves a Code of Conduct case.”

Republic Act 6713 explicitly states that public officials should practice simple living in the performance of their duties.

“Public officials and employees and their families shall lead modest lives appropriate to their positions and income,” the law reads. “They shall not indulge in extravagant or ostentatious display of wealth in any form.”

The law also outlines possible penalties for violations, which may include a fine equivalent to up to six months’ salary, suspension of up to one year, or removal from service, depending on the gravity of the offense. Any sanction must follow due process, including proper notice and a formal hearing.

While critics were vocal, some online users urged caution, noting that possession of luxury items does not automatically equate to a violation of the law. Others emphasized the need for proper investigation before drawing conclusions.

Yetthis writing, Councilor Ancheta has yet to issue an official statement addressing the allegations or the screenshots circulating online. No formal complaint has been publicly confirmed by authorities.

The incident has once again sparked broader conversations about transparency, public perception, and the standards expected of elected officials, particularly in the age of social media where personal posts can quickly influence public opinion.

For many Filipinos, the controversy underscores the importance of ethical leadership and accountability, reminding public servants that their actions—both online and offline—are subject to scrutiny as part of the public trust.