Erwin Tulfo Warns Senators Against Unauthorized Blue Ribbon Investigations
ERWIN TULFO – The senator warned that he would seek the arrest of any senator who conducts a Senate Blue Ribbon Committee hearing without his approval, maintaining that he is the rightful chairman of the committee and the only person authorized to call official investigations under its jurisdiction. His statement came after a separate hearing was held by a group of senators led by Senator Alan Peter Cayetano, where former Marines presented claims about the alleged delivery of cash-filled suitcases to politicians on behalf of a former congressman.
Tulfo questioned the legitimacy of the hearing, describing it as unofficial and inconsistent with Senate rules. According to him, the gathering did not follow the proper procedures required for a recognized Blue Ribbon Committee hearing. He said it was not officially acknowledged by the Senate, did not involve official committee staff, and was not recorded through the committee’s standard processes. He also stated that senators who participated in the proceeding could face ethics complaints for allegedly violating Senate regulations.
The issue is part of a broader dispute between two Senate groups over leadership and authority. Tulfo belongs to the bloc led by Senator Sherwin Gatchalian, who was designated acting Senate President by a group of senators. Meanwhile, the camp led by Alan Peter Cayetano has challenged the validity of that leadership arrangement and continues to hold a different position on Senate operations.
Tulfo also denied the allegations raised during the hearing that linked him and several lawmakers to the reported cash deliveries. He announced plans to file libel cases against those who made the accusations, emphasizing that serious claims should be supported by credible evidence. He stressed that individuals should be held accountable for allegations that could affect a person’s reputation. While he said he was not personally offended by the accusations, he believes legal action is necessary to protect his name and credibility.
Tulfo has scheduled what he considers the official Blue Ribbon Committee hearing and has invited the same witnesses to appear. He said all witnesses will undergo proper verification before testifying and that committee rules will be strictly observed. He also suggested that the allegations may be politically motivated, claiming that certain groups view him and other senators as potential political rivals and are attempting to damage their public image through unverified accusations.
Related Post: Erwin Tulfo to File Charges vs Ex-Marines Over ‘Maleta’ Claims