Cebu 5th District Representative Duke Frasco has officially declared his status as an independent member of the House of Representatives after abstaining from voting for Representative Martin Romualdez, who was elected Speaker by the majority.

In a statement released after the speakership vote, Frasco said his decision to abstain was based not on political strategy but on principle, citing a need for “leadership that restores public trust, upholds the integrity of Congress, and reinforces the President’s priorities with urgency and purpose.”

“This decision is grounded not in political convenience, but in principle and in my view of what the institution urgently needs,” Frasco said.

Frasco emphasized growing public frustration with traditional political maneuvering, pointing to a broader call for “less politics and more genuine public service.”

“My independent stance reflects a commitment to meaningful, transparent work that serves the common good,” he said.

Frasco, who was previously removed from the National Unity Party for refusing to back Romualdez’s bid, has been viewed by some as a rising contender in the leadership race, earning praise for his “no-nonsense” governance style.

“Nation-building demands discipline, purpose, and the courage to make difficult but necessary choices,” he added, underscoring his continued commitment to President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s administration, while maintaining autonomy within the House.