Written by Jaira Lou V. Batangan and Shenellyn P. Pineda
In the bustling world of Philippine media, one surname stands out for its blend of controversy and charisma: Tulfo. From the airwaves to the halls of Congress, the Tulfo family transitioned from being mere TV personalities to formidable political figures. Their rise has sparked a national debate, challenging the boundaries between media influence and political power.
The Rise of Raffy Tulfo
The Tulfo family’s increasing political presence is undeniable. Ben’s brother, Raffy Tulfo, already holds a Senate seat. Raffy built his political career on his media popularity, offering instant justice through his show Raffy Tulfo in Action. His dramatic confrontations and swift resolutions captivated the public, propelling him into the political spotlight. For instance, his intervention in high-profile cases has often led to immediate government action, boosting his credibility and support.
However, this rise has not been without controversy. Critics argue that Raffy’s media presence gives him an unfair advantage, blurring the line between service and self-promotion. The question remains: is his popularity a true reflection of his capability as a public servant, or merely a product of his media influence? Surveys indicate a mixed public opinion—some view him as a champion of justice, while others see him as exploiting his media platform for political gain.
The Growing Tulfo Political Dynasty
Subsequently, Raffy’s wife, Jocelyn Tulfo, also serves as a Representative under the ACT-CIS Partylist, while their son recently became a Representative for Quezon City’s 2nd District. The Tulfo family’s political footprint is no longer limited to the media or a single branch of government—it spans multiple offices and generations.
Meanwhile, Erwin Tulfo, another brother, is currently serving as Deputy Majority Leader in the House of Representatives under ACT-CIS. Despite past controversies and questions about his qualifications, Erwin remains a significant figure in Philippine politics.
On the other hand, Ben Tulfo, a media personality and founder of Wazzup Pilipinas, is running for senator in the 2025 Philippine general elections. Interestingly, Ben has publicly stated his opposition to political dynasties. He argues for a law that would define and limit dynasties, a stance that resonates with those frustrated by recurring political names.
But what sets the Tulfos apart is their ability to combine media power with political influence. Their shows have helped Filipinos seek justice, but over time, this platform has evolved into a tool for political advancement. Critics argue that the family’s media presence gives them an unfair advantage, especially during elections, blurring the line between service and vested interest.
Anti-Trapo or Trapo-in-Disguise?
Despite framing themselves as “anti-trapo,” their dominance across branches mirrors the very dynasties they criticize. Ben’s anti-dynasty rhetoric is seen by some as self-contradictory, given his own family’s rapid rise in politics. Supporters of the Tulfos, however, argue that their success is based on hard work and public trust, not just family ties.
Ben’s proposed anti-dynasty law could be a pivotal moment in this debate. If passed, it could level the political playing field, offering opportunities for new leadership rather than reinforcing the influence of familiar family names. Whether the Tulfos truly believe in breaking dynastic chains—or whether they’ll continue to work the system to their advantage-–remains to be seen as the 2025 elections draw near.
THE BARRISTER 