Cebu 5th District Representative Duke Frasco has declared his position as an independent member of the House of Representatives as the 20th Congress opens, citing a principled stand to restore public trust and uphold integrity in legislative leadership.
Now on his third term in Congress, Frasco emphasized that his decision does not detract from his strong support for President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s legislative priorities. Instead, he said it reflects a commitment to urgency and purpose in addressing national development goals.
“I have abstained from voting for Representative Martin Romualdez as Speaker, as I declare my position as an independent member of the House of Representatives,” Frasco stated. “This decision is grounded not in political convenience, but in principle — and in my view of what the institution urgently needs: leadership that restores public trust, upholds the integrity of Congress, and reinforces the President’s priorities with urgency and purpose.”
Frasco pointed to growing public dissatisfaction over excessive political maneuvering and vowed to champion a legislative agenda anchored on transparency, accountability, and reform. He underscored his intent to work across party lines to pass meaningful measures that directly improve the lives of Filipinos.
“My independence reflects a commitment to meaningful, results-driven work that strengthens our institutions and serves the common good. Nation-building demands discipline, purpose, and the courage to make necessary choices for the Filipino people,” he added.
Calling for a more genuine form of public service, Frasco stressed the need for less politicking and more action-driven governance in the House of Representatives.
“My focus is on real progress, stronger institutions, and restoring public trust where it matters most — in the everyday lives of the Filipino people.”
Frasco enters the 20th Congress with 18 years of public service, having secured a fresh mandate with a resounding 217,000 votes in Cebu’s 5th District during the recent midterm elections.
During the 19th Congress, he served as Deputy Speaker, authoring and sponsoring key legislation that addressed urgent needs in Cebu and beyond. Among his notable initiatives were efforts to expand access to public higher education and healthcare, including the establishment of the Liloan Children’s Hospital and upgrades to district hospitals.
Frasco holds degrees in Finance and Accounting from Loyola Marymount University in Los Angeles, California.