Cebu 5th District Rep. Duke Frasco is beginning his third term in Congress as an independent member of the House of Representatives — a move he says is rooted in principle amid a call to restore public trust as the 20th Congress opened.
Frasco emphasized that his independence should not be mistaken for opposition to the Marcos administration. In fact, he reiterated his strong support for President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s legislative priorities, calling for urgency and discipline in advancing measures that drive national development.
“I abstained from voting for Rep. Martin Romualdez as Speaker, as I declared my position as an independent member of the House of Representatives,” Frasco said. “This decision is grounded not in political convenience, but in principle and in my view of what the institution urgently needs: leadership that restores the public trust, upholds the integrity of Congress, and reinforces the President’s priorities with urgency and purpose.”
Frasco said his decision also reflects growing public frustration with excessive political maneuverings. He vowed to focus on a legislative agenda anchored in transparency, accountability, and reforms that directly impact Filipino lives.
“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 said.
The three-term lawmaker also highlighted the need for a more genuine brand of public service amid increasing discontent and calls for less politicking in the House.
“My focus is on real progress, stronger institutions, and restoring public trust where it matters most: in the everyday lives of the Filipino people,” he stressed.
Frasco secured his mandate in the recent midterm elections with a commanding 217,000 votes in Cebu’s 5th District. He enters the 20th Congress with 18 years of experience in public service behind him.
During the recently concluded 19th Congress, he served as Deputy Speaker and authored key measures addressing both local and national concerns. His work in Congress has included efforts to expand access to public higher education and the establishment of healthcare facilities such as the Liloan Children’s Hospital, along with upgrades to district hospitals in Cebu.
Frasco holds degrees in Finance and Accounting from Loyola Marymount University in Los Angeles, California, and previously worked as an internal auditor for a multinational corporation.