Yedda Romualdez Denies Cebu Governor Bid Amid Rumors
Rep. Yedda Romualdez, known for her usually warm demeanor, issued a strong statement on Facebook on the evening of June 7. She addressed circulating political rumors linking her to the upcoming Cebu elections, urging the public to avoid using her name for selfish political agendas. “Please do not use my name for your selfish political interests,” she emphasized.
The Tingog Party-list representative, who represents Leyte’s 1st district and is married to House Speaker Martin Romualdez, spoke directly to the people of Cebu and the Filipino public. She clarified that despite widespread speculation, she is not pursuing any political position in Cebu. “I want to speak directly to the people of Cebu—and to the Filipino public—who may have seen my name being dragged into local political speculation,” she said.
Clarifying Residency and Election Intentions
Romualdez firmly stated, “Let me be very clear: I am not running for governor. I am not running for any position in Cebu. I have not transferred my residency.” She also challenged the rumors by mentioning a Cebu congressman by name, highlighting that her voter registration does not exist in Cebu. “These are facts that can easily be verified. It is very easy to check the Comelec records in Liloan. I am not a registered voter there. My mother is registered in Cebu City—but I am not,” she added. Referring to Deputy Speaker Vincent Franco “Duke” Frasco of Cebu’s 5th district, she said, “Duke knows fully well whether or not I am his constituent.”
Message to Cebu Voters and Political Figures
Romualdez further urged those spreading false information to desist. She reminded everyone that politics should focus on public service rather than power struggles. “Politics should be about public service, not power games. And right now, my focus is clear: serving the Filipino people, not personal ambition,” she asserted.
In a rare move, she even told the people of Cebu not to vote for her if they ever see her name on the ballot. “Ako na po mismo ang nagsasabi sa inyo: huwag n’yo akong iboto (I’ll be the one to tell you: don’t vote for me). Because that would not be me,” she said.
Political Tensions in Cebu
The controversy coincides with reports involving Deputy Speaker Frasco, who recently declined to sign a manifesto supporting Speaker Romualdez’s continued leadership in the 20th Congress. This decision led to Frasco’s removal from the National Unity Party (NUP), a strong ally of both Speaker Romualdez and President Marcos.
Frasco is also notable as the son-in-law of Cebu Governor Gwendolyn Garcia, who was defeated in the May elections. These developments have stirred political tensions in the province, with various leaders and local sources noting the ongoing power dynamics.
For more news and updates on Cebu politics, visit Filipinokami.com.