NATIONAL
Advocates Philippines
Tulfo Siblings Face Disqualification Case: Political Dynasty And Citizenship Issues Raised
Photo credit: Ben Tulfo
Looks like the Tulfo family is in for a legal battle. The Commission on Elections has confirmed that a disqualification case has been filed against several members of the well-known Tulfo clan who are running for public office in the upcoming elections.
The case, filed by a certain Virgilio Garcia, targets ACT-CIS Rep. Erwin Tulfo, Quezon City 2nd District Rep. Ralph Wendel Tulfo, former Tourism Secretary Wanda Tulfo-Teo, broadcaster Ben Tulfo, and Rep. Jocelyn Pua-Tulfo. The petition argues that the Tulfo family’s candidacies violate the constitutional prohibition against political dynasties.
The Basis of the Case
Garcia's petition highlights two key arguments:
1. The Political Dynasty Clause – While Congress has yet to define what constitutes a "political dynasty," Garcia insists that the Tulfos already fit the bill. With multiple siblings running for office at the same time—Erwin and Ben vying for Senate seats and Wanda nominated under the Turismo party-list—Garcia claims their presence in government is excessive.
2. Natural-Born Citizenship Issue – Garcia also questions whether the Tulfos, including Sen. Raffy Tulfo, are natural-born Filipinos. According to the Constitution, only natural-born citizens can run for senator or congressman, and Garcia wants the Tulfos to prove their eligibility before the COMELEC.
What’s Next?
The COMELEC will now review the petition and determine whether there is enough merit to disqualify the Tulfos. Given their strong presence in politics and media, this case is bound to spark intense public debate. Will the Tulfo siblings be able to prove their eligibility, or will this case shake up their political ambitions?
The case, filed by a certain Virgilio Garcia, targets ACT-CIS Rep. Erwin Tulfo, Quezon City 2nd District Rep. Ralph Wendel Tulfo, former Tourism Secretary Wanda Tulfo-Teo, broadcaster Ben Tulfo, and Rep. Jocelyn Pua-Tulfo. The petition argues that the Tulfo family’s candidacies violate the constitutional prohibition against political dynasties.
The Basis of the Case
Garcia's petition highlights two key arguments:
1. The Political Dynasty Clause – While Congress has yet to define what constitutes a "political dynasty," Garcia insists that the Tulfos already fit the bill. With multiple siblings running for office at the same time—Erwin and Ben vying for Senate seats and Wanda nominated under the Turismo party-list—Garcia claims their presence in government is excessive.
2. Natural-Born Citizenship Issue – Garcia also questions whether the Tulfos, including Sen. Raffy Tulfo, are natural-born Filipinos. According to the Constitution, only natural-born citizens can run for senator or congressman, and Garcia wants the Tulfos to prove their eligibility before the COMELEC.
What’s Next?
The COMELEC will now review the petition and determine whether there is enough merit to disqualify the Tulfos. Given their strong presence in politics and media, this case is bound to spark intense public debate. Will the Tulfo siblings be able to prove their eligibility, or will this case shake up their political ambitions?
Feb 18, 2025
We are dedicated storytellers with a passion for bringing your brand to life. Our services range from news and media features to brand promotion and collaborations.
Interested? Visit our
Contact Us page for more information. To learn more about what we offer, check out our latest article on services and opportunities.
