MANILA, Philippines — Ben Tulfo, one of the “Tulfo Brothers,” filed his certificate of candidacy before the Commission on Elections (Comelec) on Saturday, October 5, in a bid to secure a seat in the Senate.
Tulfo is known for the show “BITAG,” a documentary-reality and investigative public service program.
This will be his first attempt to run for public office and as an independent candidate, despite the many invitations he has received, he said.
Asked about forming a political dynasty with his brothers, Ben said that "you cannot have a dynasty" in the Senate. He compared it to families filled with lawyers or doctors.
"Is it our fault that we love our profession in the media, where we give the same importance? It's just like a family of lawyers," Ben said in Filipino.
Siblings in politics
Ben joins the Tulfo siblings already in public office. All three of them are broadcasters.
Raffy is a senator who leads the Committee on Public Services and the Committee on Migrant Workers.
Meanwhile, Erwin represents ACT-CIS partylist in the lower chamber. He held the position of Secretary of Social Welfare and Development from June 30 to December 27, 2022, until the Commission on Appointments blocked and bypassed his appointment.
Erwin is also looking to run for Senate, as he is among the eleven aspirants in the administration's senatorial slate, "Alyansa para sa Bagong Pilipinas."
Their sister, Wanda Teo, was the former Tourism Secretary under former President Rodrigo Duterte from June 30, 2016, until her resignation amid graft controversies on May 8, 2018.