Sen. Erwin Tulfo issued an apology on Sunday, June 7, after criticizing and threatening to arrest members of the rival Cayetano bloc if they held another “unauthorized” and “fake” Blue Ribbon Committee hearing.
In an interview on Friday, Tulfo asserted his authority as chairman of the Senate Blue Ribbon Committee, warning that he would order the arrest of his colleagues and even drag Sen. Alan Peter Cayetano by the collar if another "fake" hearing were held.
Tulfo acknowledged that “this is not how an official, much less a senator, should behave” explaining that his “inappropriate” behavior was primarily driven by his desire to continue the Senate’s work without further delays.
“Because of the seemingly endless arguments on politics, our mandate was paralyzed. And the Filipino people are the real losers here,” he said, as he asked for forgiveness from the public.
He also called for his colleagues to set aside their differences and refocus on serving the Filipino people.
“Therefore, I call upon my fellow senators: let us end this division. Because outside of the Senate, some of us are friends, or even close peers and companions. So, let us just get back to work,” Tulfo appealed.
The apology came amid an ongoing leadership dispute in the Senate. Following Tulfo’s election as the new chairman of the Blue Ribbon Committee, the bloc led by Sen. Alan Peter Cayetano proceeded with a previously scheduled hearing, which Tulfo later described as unauthorized.
Written by Czairine Quimoyog, Insight PH
Czairine Quimoyog, Insight PH is a dedicated campus journalist and contributor. Their insightful writing sparks meaningful conversations and keeps the community informed.
