How elections set off government shakeups

While the Senate steals the show with a presidential tug-of-war amid the impeachment trial, the House of Representatives is also seeing its own political maneuvering, as new contenders have emerged to challenge the speakership.

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The president’s cousin, House Speaker Martin Romualdez, already has the backing of 287 members — around 90% of the 20th Congress. So who’s bold enough to stir the pot?

Rep. Duke Frasco (Cebu, 5th District) served as a deputy speaker in the 19th Congress. He was a member of the National Unity Party (NUP) until he refused to endorse Romualdez’s continued speakership in the next Congress, leading to his expulsion.

After the 2025 midterm elections, a manifesto circulated among incoming lawmakers, seeking their signatures to pledge support for Romualdez to remain as House Speaker.

As of writing, 283 have reportedly signed the document, while 287 of the 317 expected House members have expressed their support.

Division claims. When Frasco publicly voiced his opposition, the NUP quickly expelled him. The deputy speaker argued that the current House leadership has caused more division than unity, signaling the need for change.

Rep. LRay Villafuerte (Camarines Sur, 2nd District), NUP’s president, contended that the party has unanimously supported Romualdez, accusing Frasco of being the one “sowing discord” within the coalition.

Now, Frasco isn’t just explaining why he no longer supports Romualdez’s speakership. He’s also pitching his name in the running.

This has raised questions not just about leadership challenges, but also about the nature of post-election power plays, which experts say usually happen.

'LAST-DITCH ATTEMPT'

Political scientist Cleve Arguelles said it’s no shock to see speakership battles following the elections or during “politically charged” moments like an impeachment.

Each Congress operates a three-year term, with House leaders elected by members during the first plenary session.

According to Arguelles, when “power moves” reach the floor, it typically means private negotiations and dealmaking have already taken place “behind the scenes.”