A disqualification case has been filed before the Commission on Elections (Comelec) against several members of the Tulfo family, raising questions about alleged political dynasty violations and citizenship issues.
The Tulfo family disqualification case includes senatorial aspirant ACT-CIS Rep. Erwin Tulfo, broadcast journalist Ben Tulfo, ACT-CIS Rep. Jocelyn Pua-Tulfo, Quezon City 2nd District Rep. and Turismo party-list nominee Wanda Tulfo-Teo.
Atty. Virgilio Garcia, who filed the petition, argues that the respondents form a political dynasty, which he claims is prohibited by Article II, Section 26 of the 1987 Constitution.
He emphasizes that the Constitution seeks to prevent the monopolistic concentration of political power within a single family.
“Prohibiting a concentration of political power in one family is a means to an end to guarantee equal access to opportunities for public service,” Garcia told Rappler on Tuesday, February 18.
The election disqualification case also raises questions about the citizenship of Erwin Tulfo, citing his prior service in the U.S. Army and possession of a U.S. passport.
The Comelec has scheduled the raffle of the disqualification case to its divisions on February 18.
Comelec Chairman George Garcia has confirmed that the disqualification case will be raffled to one of the poll body’s divisions on February 18, and will undergo the standard process.
The case argues that too many members of the Tulfo family are running for government positions at the same time. The complaint says this is unfair because it gives one family too much political power, which the Constitution does not allow.
Yes, political dynasties are prohibited under the 1987 Philippine Constitution, specifically in Article II, Section 26, which states:”The State shall guarantee equal access to opportunities for public service, and prohibit political dynasties as may be defined by law.”
The Commission on Elections (Comelec) is reviewing the case. They will follow legal procedures to decide if the Tulfos should be disqualified or allowed to run in the elections.
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