Lawyer seeks to disqualify Rep Erwin Tulfo over dynasty, citizenship issues

Lawyer Virgilio R. Garcia filed a petition with the Commission on Elections (Comelec) seeking to disqualify Rep. Erwin Tulfo and other family members from running for public office in 2025's election, alleging violation of constitutional rule against political dynasties and raising concerns about Erwin Tulfo’s citizenship.

Garcia argues that despite no enabling law prohibiting political dynasties, the provisions of the Constitution are self-executing. He also claims that Erwin Tulfo is ineligible to run for senator due to issues in his citizenship after acquiring US citizenship but renouncing it.

Erwin Tulfo dismissed Garcia's case as unsubstantive and said he has yet to read the petition, while Comelec chairman George Garcia stated that the commission would decide on the petition 'soon'.

Garcia's filing comes amid a tight race for Senate seats in 2025 elections where Erwin Tulfo ranks first and his brother Ben Tulfo places between third and eighth in recent surveys.

In addition to advocating against political dynasties, Garcia is also running as an independent candidate for Quezon City 2nd District representative.