Cebu Officials Under Investigation for Alleged Absence During Typhoon Tino
Cebu officials are facing a complaint filed with the Office of the Ombudsman for reportedly being abroad during Typhoon Tino, allegedly abandoning their duties during a time of crisis. The Cebu Provincial Government has submitted the necessary documents to the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) to assist with the investigation.
The officials named in the complaint include Cebu 5th District Representative Vincent Franco (Duke) Frasco, Liloan Mayor Aljew Fernando Frasco, Catmon Mayor Avis Ginoo-Monleon, San Francisco Mayor Alfredo Arquillano Jr., Tudela Mayor Greman Solante, Poro Mayor Edgar Rama, Pilar Mayor Manuel Santiago, and Compostela Mayor Felijur Quiño.
Duke Frasco responded, saying the complaint is based on incorrect assumptions and misunderstandings. He explained that his trip to London on November 4 was an authorized official mission as part of the Philippine delegation to the World Travel Market (WTM), a major global tourism event that promotes partnerships and investments. The trip was approved by the Speaker of the House through the Secretary-General and did not use government funds, in line with his usual practice for official foreign travels.
After learning about the severe flooding in Cebu, Frasco immediately arranged to return. He departed London on November 5 and arrived in Cebu on November 6, going directly to Barangay Cotcot, Liloan, to assist with relief efforts alongside national and local officials.
Frasco also noted that the travel of other local officials was approved by the Governor of Cebu, who supervises local government units, and that only the provincial government could cancel such trips. He emphasized that claims suggesting he failed to meet responsibilities under the Local Government Code and the Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Act are inaccurate. As a legislator, his main duties include representation, lawmaking, and oversight, but he has always tried to personally assist with relief during emergencies.
Frasco concluded that he will continue working with national agencies to support local governments and communities affected by Typhoon Tino, assisting with relief, rebuilding, and recovery efforts.