MANILA – A Cebuano lawmaker acknowledged that he endorsed the impeachment complaint against Vice President Sara Duterte-Carpio due to concerns about potentially losing funding for programs of his constituents.
Fifth District’s Deputy Speaker Vincent Franco “Duke” Frasco stated that more than 16,000 students are presently receiving support from the district’s scholarship program, which he expressed concern could be at risk if he did not align himself with the majority.
He further emphasized his efforts on behalf of Persons with Disabilities (PWDs), fisherfolk, solo parents, students, drivers, and vendors. He also noted his involvement in the establishment of two universities in the towns of Liloan and Borbon.
Frasco also expressed concerns about the continuity of ongoing projects in his area, including the airport terminal project in the Camotes Islands, if funding were affected.
“Sulod ni sa atong mga programa ug mga proyekto nga mao ang rason nganong ni pirma ko nga di ko gusto nga marisgo atong mga programa,” Frasco said. “Delikado kaayo nga ma zero-han ko sa akong budget.”
Frasco further said that one of the reasons behind his endorsement of the impeachment was Duterte-Carpio’s engagement with certain political adversaries, coupled with her unwillingness to extend support to his spouse, Department of Tourism Secretary Christina Garcia-Frasco.
Frasco recalled an incident in July 2023 when his wife approached the Vice President for assistance in urging their allies to mitigate the social media criticisms regarding the contentious “Love the Philippines” advertising campaign, in the interest of preserving their coalition. However, Duterte-Carpio declined, asserting that she lacked the capacity to sway social media influencers.
Additionally, Garcia-Frasco sought a supportive statement from Duterte-Carpio, akin to those previously made by President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr., senators, and mayors, but her request was refused.
Frasco, however, stated that Duterte-Carpio will have the opportunity to clarify the allegations made against her, as the impeachment complaint is currently with the Senate.
“Ang Senado may mohukom kung naa bay sala o guilty ba sa mga alegasyon against sa atong VP Sara,” he said. “So angay rasad nga matagaan og sakto nga forum ang atoang VP Sara.”/PN
