Cebu City, Philippines — In a bold political move, Cebu 5th District Representative Duke Frasco has officially declared his independence from traditional House alignments and is now in active talks with fellow lawmakers to form a new independent bloc in the House of Representatives.
Frasco confirmed discussions with Bacolod City Representative Albee Benitez and Navotas Representative Toby Tiangco, all of whom abstained from the recent speakership vote for House Speaker Martin Romualdez. Their abstention signals a shift toward independence and a call for integrity-driven leadership in Congress.
“We’ve been working closely together. With our stand yesterday, we made it clear—we’re here for the Filipino people,” Frasco said. “Our commitment is to serve with independence and integrity, not for politics, but for principle.”
Now entering his third term in Congress, Frasco said his choice to remain unaffiliated is rooted in a desire to restore public trust in government. “This isn’t about political convenience. It’s about what Congress needs now more than ever—leadership that values integrity and reflects the urgency of the President’s development agenda,” he emphasized.
While distancing himself from traditional alliances, Frasco remains supportive of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s legislative priorities. “Independence doesn’t mean opposition. It means pushing for reforms with discipline and purpose—working across the aisle to get things done for the country.”
Frasco added that the potential independent bloc aims to serve as a constructive voice within Congress, focused on good governance, inclusive growth, and strong institutions. “Nation-building is about making the tough calls. We’re doing this not for position or power, but for genuine service to the Filipino people.”
With nearly two decades in public service and a renewed mandate after winning re-election with over 217,000 votes in Cebu’s 5th District, Frasco enters the 20th Congress with both experience and vision. In the previous 19th Congress, he served as Deputy Speaker, championing policies that improved healthcare access and higher education in Cebu and beyond.
Among his key accomplishments are the establishment of the Liloan Children’s Hospital and major upgrades to local district hospitals. He has also pushed for expanded access to public colleges, reinforcing his track record as a results-oriented legislator.
An alumnus of Loyola Marymount University in Los Angeles with degrees in Finance and Accounting, Frasco also brings private sector experience as a former internal auditor in a multinational firm—insight he says he applies to ensure transparency and accountability in government.
As he embarks on this new chapter, Frasco’s message is clear: independence, for him, is not a political tactic—it’s a call to action.