Cebu 5th District Representative Vincent Francis "Duke" Frasco has publicly addressed mounting criticism over his practice of distributing disaster relief goods bearing his name and photograph, asserting that these initiatives are funded entirely from his personal resources rather than government coffers.
The 'Epal' Accusation and Frasco's Defense
In a recent interview on the "Not So Late Night Show with Jason Monteclar" released November 14, 2025, Frasco directly confronted allegations labeling him as "epal" - Filipino slang for someone who inappropriately seeks credit. The congressman emphasized that "not a single centavo" from government funds was used for his relief operations, which became particularly visible during two major disasters that recently struck Cebu: a destructive earthquake followed by severe flooding that resulted in at least 108 deaths, 44 missing persons, and 1,365 injuries.
Frasco argued that according to the strict definition of "epal" - which involves claiming credit for something one didn't do or using public funds for self-promotion - his actions don't qualify. He maintains that since the relief goods come from his personal business inventory and are paid for with his own money, he isn't improperly taking credit for government projects or resources.
Business Strategy Meets Political Necessity
The congressman revealed a calculated two-fold purpose behind his approach. When he first entered politics in 2019, Frasco faced the challenge of competing against the Durano clan's 70-year political dominance in Cebu's 5th District, which comprises Danao City, Camotes Islands, and municipalities including Borbon, Carmen, Catmon, Compostela, Liloan, Pilar, San Francisco, Sogod and Tudela.
"Only about 8 percent of the voting population in the district was aware of Frasco," the representative explained, noting his brand was largely unknown beyond its Liloan base at the time. The branded goods - which include rice, water, sardines, and soda - served both as disaster relief when needed and as products from his business during ordinary times.
From Political Newcomer to District Dominance
Frasco's strategy proved remarkably effective. He ended the Durano clan's seven-decade political control in 2019 by defeating incumbent congressman Ramon Durano VI. The victory marked just the beginning of his political ascent, as he subsequently defeated Red Durano in 2022 and secured his third consecutive term by trouncing Mix Durano in 2025.
When questioned by Monteclar about evidence supporting his claim of using personal funds, Frasco confirmed he maintains receipts and that suppliers can verify his purchases, including sardines sourced from Zamboanga and water from Liloan.
Despite his documentation and explanations, critics remain unconvinced, arguing that the prominent branding on relief goods demonstrates a lack of humility regardless of funding source. The controversy highlights ongoing tensions between political marketing and public service in Philippine politics.
