Frasco denies speakership interest

CEBU, Philippines — Cebu Fifth District Rep. Duke Frasco has denied reports suggesting he is eyeing the House speakership, reiterating instead his call for a unifying leadership in the chamber.

“Contrary to recent reports, I have not made any decision—much less offered myself—for the position of Speaker of the House in the upcoming 20th Congress. At this time, my focus remains on supporting the President’s agenda and contributing meaningfully to our shared goals of national unity and development,” Frasco said in a statement released yesterday.

Frasco emphasized his unwavering commitment to the vision of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.

“I believe the House of Representatives must be a united and proactive partner in delivering meaningful and lasting change for the Filipino people,” he said.

However, Frasco said that if the election for Speaker were held today, he would support either Congressman Toby Tiangco or Congressman Albee Benitez. He did not elaborate on the reasons behind his preference.

To recall, Frasco was asked to sign a manifesto supporting the continued leadership of Speaker Martin Romualdez in the 20th Congress on May 14, just two days after the 2025 local elections, but he did not.

His refusal to support Romualdez prompted the leadership of the National Unity Party (NUP) to expel him.

Meanwhile, Frasco took his oath of office the other day for a third term as representative, administered by Barangay Captain Gloria Sanchez of Poblacion, Liloan.

“I am deeply honored by the overwhelming support and renewed mandate from the people of Cebu’s 5th District, having secured 217,303 votes with a margin of 84,201 in the 2025 elections,” he said.

He was joined by his wife, Tourism Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco; Liloan Mayor Aljew Frasco; and the Barangay Councilors of Poblacion.

“Daghang salamat, mga pinalangga kong kaigsuonan sa Kinto Distrito, sa higayon ug oportunidad nga inyong gihatag kanako sa pagpangalagad kaninyo. Salamat sa inyong pagsalig, sa inyong pagtoo sa atong panan-awon, sa atong liderato, ug sa mga nabuhat natong kausaban. Your voice has been heard loud and clear, and I will continue to serve with dedication, purpose, and heart alang sa kalambuan sa atong Distrito ug sa kauswagan sa inyong tagsa-tagsa ka kinabuhi,” Frasco said. — (FREEMAN)