DS Frasco: My vote, principles are not for sale; my record speaks for itself
DEPUTY Speaker Vincent Franco “Duke” Frasco has filed cyber libel case against columnist Rigoberto Tiglao for an article published in a daily newspaper.
The complaint stemmed from an article in where Tiglao alleged that the Deputy Speaker was “bribed” to sign the impeachment complaint against Vice President Sara Duterte.
According to Frasco, the accusation is not only false but also tarnished his reputation as Deputy Speaker of the 19th Congress,”
He emphasized that his vote concerning the impeachment complaint was based solely on his principles and his commitment to what is best for his constituents.
“I can categorically say that my vote was based on my principles and my own determination on what is best for my constituents in my district. My vote and my principles are not for sale,” Frasco said.
While expressing respect for the media’s role in a democratic society, the Deputy Speaker condemned the “reckless actions.”
“I will not tolerate these reckless and irresponsible acts masquerading as editorial and opinion journalism,” he stressed.
The Deputy Speaker noted that The Manila Times had previously issued an apology on February 19, 2025, acknowledging the misleading nature of Tiglao’s assertions.
The apology stated that “such false and reckless attribution should not have been made” and acknowledged that the “unverified article has caused significant harm to my reputation,” adding that they “deeply regret this error.”
The Deputy Speaker’s career spans nearly two decades, beginning as the youngest Municipal Mayor of Liloan from 2007 to 2016, followed by his tenure as Vice Mayor and then as Commissioner of the Cebu Ports Authority from 2017 to 2019. Since 2019, he has served as a legislator, having been re-elected twice, focusing on enhancing the quality of life for his constituents.
“My service has been marked by initiatives designed to advance educational opportunities, provide medical assistance, create economic pathways through employment and livelihoods, and foster long-term community development through infrastructure projects and improved health and education facilities,” he said.
“My record speaks for itself—a commitment to integrity, transparency, and my district’s welfare,” he added.
The solon pointed out that legal action is not just about defending his personal honor but a stand for truth and accountability in media practices.
Before the Congress went on session break, the articles of impeachment against Vice President Sara Duterte was filed in the Senate with at least 214 lawmakers as endorsers.
