The Commission on Elections (Comelec) has dismissed a petition seeking to disqualify brothers Erwin and Ben Tulfo from running for Senate, along with three other members of their family aiming for congressional seats in the 2025 elections.
In its decision on Tuesday, March 4, Comelec said the petitioner, lawyer Virgilio Garcia, failed to include the candidates’ certificates of candidacy (COC), which are required under Comelec Resolution 11046. Without the COCs, the poll body said it could not verify if those named in the petition were officially running for office.
Comelec Chair George Garcia emphasized the importance of submitting complete documents, as the COCs are essential proof of candidacy. He also pointed out that there was no clear proof that the Tulfo family members were properly notified of the petition.
However, Garcia clarified that the dismissal is not final. The petitioner may still file a motion for reconsideration or refile the case, this time ensuring all necessary documents are complete.
The disqualification bid, filed on February 18, claimed the Tulfo family is forming a political dynasty, which the Constitution discourages. It also raised questions about Erwin Tulfo’s eligibility due to his previous American citizenship.
Responding to the dismissal, Erwin Tulfo welcomed the decision, saying it shows the elections remain credible and fair. He still faces another disqualification case filed on February 25, which also cites his libel conviction and questions his qualifications.
When asked about the issue of political dynasties, both Erwin and Ben Tulfo pointed out that no law has been passed to officially define and ban dynasties, although they expressed support for such legislation.
If successful in the 2025 elections, the Tulfo brothers could join their sibling, Senator Raffy Tulfo, making them three in the upper chamber.
