Frasco explains decision not to support Romualdez

Local

HOUSE Deputy Speaker and Cebu 5th District Representative Duke Frasco stood firm on his decision not to sign the manifesto backing House Speaker Martin Romualdez.

In a statement on Monday, June 9, 2025, his choice was based on consultations with fellow lawmakers, constituents, and local leaders from the Visayas and Mindanao who shared a common frustration with the current leadership in the House of Representatives.

Frasco explained that the concerns raised during these conversations reflected a growing sentiment of disappointment over how political and personal interests have affected unity within the chamber.

He issued his statement on Monday, June 9, two days after Tingog Partylist Representative Yedda Romualdez, the House Speaker’s wife, released her own statement denying rumors of a potential gubernatorial bid in Cebu.

In her statement, Yedda Romualdez also criticized those whom she accused of using her name to advance “selfish political interests.”

The controversy comes in the wake of Frasco’s expulsion from the National Unity Party (NUP), whose president, Camarines Sur Representative LRay Villafuerte, announced on June 7 that the deputy speaker was removed from the party for refusing to sign the pro-Romualdez manifesto.

Frasco said he was asked to sign the document on May 14, just two days after the 2025 elections. After what he described as “careful reflection,” he decided not to.

“In recent weeks, I have spoken with my colleagues in Congress, local leaders — especially from the Visayas and Mindanao — and most importantly, with my own constituents. A shared frustration has emerged,” Frasco said.

“There is deep disappointment that the unity our people once hoped for has been steadily undermined by political and personal interests," he added.

He stressed that his decision was not meant to create further division in the House, but to push for a kind of leadership that “unites rather than divides” and “reinforces our shared vision.”

“The President has consistently called for unity, stability, and a government that delivers meaningful change. I firmly believe that the House of Representatives should reflect these values, not only through the laws we pass, but also in the leadership that we uphold,” he added.

Frasco also pointed out that public servants are called to serve not individual interests, but the Filipino people.

Despite Frasco’s absence, at least 285 lawmakers have signed the manifesto in support of Romualdez.

Deputy Speaker David “Jay-jay” Suarez said later on Monday that the broad support for the Speaker “is a true sign of unity in the House of Representatives.”

House spokesperson Princess Abante had earlier said that Speaker Romualdez met with lawmakers from Central Visayas and discussed programs aligned with the Bagong Pilipinas agenda, which further affirmed their support for his leadership.(MyTVCebu)