House Deputy Speaker Rejects Manifesto for Romualdez Leadership
House Deputy Speaker and Cebu 5th District Representative Vincent Franco “Duke” Frasco has openly confirmed his refusal to sign the manifesto backing the continued leadership of Speaker Martin Romualdez in the upcoming 20th Congress. This decision was shared in a Facebook post early Monday morning, June 9.
Frasco expressed his concerns about the House of Representatives and its current leadership, emphasizing a need for genuine unity. “On May 14, just two days after the 2025 local elections, I was asked to sign a manifesto supporting the continued leadership of Speaker Martin Romualdez in the 20th Congress. I have not signed the manifesto, and after careful reflection, I have decided not to,” he wrote.
Shared Frustration Over Political Unity
The House Deputy Speaker, who was later expelled by the National Unity Party (NUP) due to his stance, highlighted a “shared frustration” among lawmakers, local officials, and his constituents, particularly from Visayas and Mindanao. They voiced deep disappointment over how the call for unity has been compromised by political and personal interests.
“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. There is deep disappointment that the unity our people once hoped for has been steadily undermined by political and personal interests,” Frasco explained.
Calling for Genuine Leadership in the House
Frasco also underscored the President’s consistent calls for unity, stability, and meaningful government reforms. He believes the House of Representatives should embody these values, not just in the laws passed but also in its leadership.
“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,” said the Cebuano lawmaker.
Choosing Unity Over Division
Regarding his refusal to support Romualdez, Frasco clarified that his decision is not meant to deepen divisions but to push for improvement.
“This decision is not about creating further division. I simply believe the House of Representatives can, and must, do better,” he stated.
He further added, “We should be a partner in building the country up, not a platform for further discord. At this critical time in our nation, I believe we need leadership in the House that unites rather than divides. Leadership that reinforces our shared vision and strengthens the path forward for our country.”
Interestingly, Frasco did not directly mention Speaker Romualdez by name in his statement.
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