FIFTH District Representative Duke Frasco has clarified that his recent trip to London was an authorized official mission and not an unauthorized personal travel, following a complaint filed before the Office of the Ombudsman.
In an official statement, Frasco said the complaint was “founded on erroneous assumptions and misrepresentations of fact and law.”
The congressman explained that his travel was part of the Philippine delegation to the World Travel Market (WTM) — one of the largest global travel and tourism expositions — aimed at promoting international partnerships and investments for the country.
“The travel was officially approved by the Speaker of the House of Representatives through the Secretary-General, consistent with established procedures for Members of Congress undertaking official missions abroad,” Frasco said.
He also stressed that no government funds were used for his trip, noting that he has consistently shouldered expenses for most of his foreign official travels.
Frasco said he arrived in London on November 4, but upon learning of the severe flooding in parts of Cebu, he immediately arranged an early return, departing London on November 5 and arriving in Cebu on November 6 to personally assist in relief and coordination efforts.
“I proceeded directly to Barangay Cotcot, Liloan, to assist in the ongoing relief operations together with national and local officials,” he added.
Addressing the mention of other local officials in the complaint, Frasco clarified that their travel authorizations were issued by the Governor of Cebu, who has administrative supervision over provincial officials.
He further dismissed claims of neglecting statutory obligations under the Local Government Code and the Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Act, saying such accusations were misplaced.
“As a legislator, my constitutional duties encompass representation, lawmaking, and oversight. Yet in times of crisis, I always try to extend support and assistance to my constituents, including personally funded relief,” Frasco said.
The congressman assured that he will continue working with national government agencies to aid affected communities in relief, rehabilitation, and recovery efforts across Cebu.
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