Several of the family are in for 2025 polls
TACLOBAN CITY—Senatorial aspirant Ben Tulfo dismissed accusations that he and his siblings, including Erwin Tulfo and other family members, are establishing a political dynasty as they prepare to run in next year’s midterm elections.
“Dynasty refers to someone having a stronghold or bailiwick, which we don’t have,” Tulfo stated during an interview on Saturday, Nov.9.
He was in Tacloban City to attend the commemoration of the 11th anniversary of Super Typhoon ‘Yolanda’, upon the invitation of Tacloban City Mayor Alfred Romualdez.
“We can’t be considered a dynasty; we don’t have any bailiwicks. Our origin is media; we are journalists,” Tulfo said in Filipino.
Addressing criticism, Tulfo emphasized the different roles he and his siblings have taken in public service.
“For those who say ‘there are too many of you,’ we each have our own focus. I, Ben Tulfo, see a lot of gray areas in our laws. Raffy is more involved in public service and domestic violence issues. Erwin focuses on the Department of Social Welfare and Development. We are not a united front in one area,” he explained.
Aside from Ben, his brother Erwin is also running for a senatorial seat. Meanwhile, their brother, Raffy Tulfo, is already an incumbent senator.
Other members of the Tulfo family participating in the May 2025 elections include their sister, former tourism secretary Wanda Teo, who is the first nominee of the party-list group Ang Turismo, with her son, Robert, as the third nominee.
Additionally, Senator Raffy Tulfo’s wife, ACT-CIS Representative Jocelyn Tulfo, and their son, Quezon City Representative Ralph Tulfo, Jr., are both seeking reelection.
Ben Tulfo attributes their strong survey ratings to their longstanding reputations as hard-hitting journalists dedicated to assisting the oppressed and underprivileged.
According to the latest Pulse Survey conducted from September 6 to 13, Erwin Tulfo topped the senatorial preference list with a 60.8% rating, followed by Ben with 49.6%. Both are running as independent candidates.
“Maybe people haven’t forgotten our time in the media,” Tulfo remarked.
When asked about those opposing their candidacies, Ben quickly responded that their critics are simply envious of their popularity.
“Those who say such things are just envious. Is it wrong for the three of us to run, seeking to fill needs? If we are rejected, the people will be the judge,” he said.
(JOEY A. GABIETA)
