Deputy Speaker and Cebu Rep. Vincent Franco “Duke” Frasco is standing firm after rejecting a manifesto supporting Speaker Martin Romualdez’s continued leadership — a decision that has cost him his membership in the National Unity Party (NUP).
Frasco revealed in a statement that he was asked to sign the pro-Romualdez manifesto just two days after the May 2025 local elections. After speaking with constituents, local leaders from Visayas and Mindanao, and fellow lawmakers, he ultimately chose not to support it.
He explained that his decision stemmed from mounting frustration among communities who feel that unity — once a promise of the current administration — has been weakened by personal and political ambition.
Frasco said the House of Representatives should reflect the President’s call for unity, stability, and change. He believes the speakership should represent these values, not hinder them.
For him, this is not about division but accountability. He said the public is expecting results, not political theater.
Expulsion follows public statement
Shortly after Frasco released his statement, NUP president and Camarines Sur Rep. LRay Villafuerte announced that the party had expelled him. According to Villafuerte, Frasco’s refusal to sign the manifesto was a direct contradiction of the party’s unanimous position to support Romualdez.
Villafuerte said Frasco should have consulted party leaders before going public. He stressed that NUP policy demands unity on critical decisions, especially those involving national leadership.
The NUP, part of the dominant supermajority bloc, has already declared full support for Romualdez in the 20th Congress. Party leaders view Frasco’s dissent as a serious breach of loyalty.
Call for leadership that heals
Despite the political fallout, Frasco emphasized that his decision was rooted in public service. He said leadership in the House must heal rather than divide and called for a return to principled politics that values performance over personality.
He added that while the people have spoken, they want progress — not power plays. For Frasco, the nation’s lawmakers must honor that voice, even if it means taking an unpopular stand.
GLOBE Magazine earlier reported that frustration had been simmering among several lawmakers over the House’s direction, especially in the regions. Frasco’s statement appears to validate those concerns.
It remains unclear whether Frasco will align with a new political group following his ouster. However, his decision to break ranks may signal deeper divisions within the supermajority as Congress prepares for a pivotal new term.
For now, Frasco stands by his conviction that the House must rise above factionalism and return to the people’s business — with or without a party behind him.
Jaja has a degree in journalism and took classes in international law and business communication. Her career spans roles at prominent international media outlets, including International Business Times, Celebeat and Delightful Philippines. As a news editor, Jaja covered a wide range of beats, including legal, business, economy, cryptocurrency, personal finance, gaming, technology, and entertainment.