Erwin Tulfo Named Acting Chairman of Senate Blue Ribbon Committee

Senator Erwin Tulfo has been appointed as the acting chairman of the Senate Blue Ribbon Committee (BRC) following the resignation of Senate President Pro Tempore Panfilo Lacson. Lacson stepped down after reports of discontent among senators regarding his handling of investigations into alleged irregularities in flood control projects. The announcement was made by Senate President Vicente Sotto III, who confirmed Tulfo’s temporary leadership of the influential oversight body.

Sotto Rejects ‘Curse’ Theory

Sotto dismissed speculation that chairing the Blue Ribbon Committee is politically disadvantageous. “There’s no such thing. Not all of them would seek reelection,” he said after a caucus with members of the majority bloc. The committee, one of the Senate’s most powerful panels, has historically led high-profile investigations into corruption and misuse of public funds.

Tulfo’s Temporary Appointment

Sotto explained that as the committee’s vice chairman, Tulfo automatically assumes the chairmanship. He accepted the role on the condition that it would be temporary until a permanent replacement is chosen. “Senator Tulfo has agreed to take on the responsibility while the Senate finalizes the appointment of a full-time chairperson,” Sotto said.
Tulfo, a former journalist and broadcaster, is known for his investigative journalism background and outspoken advocacy for public accountability. “Yes, definitely. He has expertise and experience in investigative journalism. And he’s brave,” Sotto added when asked about Tulfo’s qualifications.

Possible Successors to the Post

Before Tulfo’s appointment, five senators were being considered to replace Lacson: Pia Cayetano, JV Ejercito, Risa Hontiveros, Francis Pangilinan, and Raffy Tulfo, Erwin’s brother. Ejercito and Raffy Tulfo are both expected to run for reelection in 2028, while Hontiveros will complete her second term in the same year. Cayetano and Pangilinan, on the other hand, will serve until 2031.
Among them, Ejercito, Pangilinan, and Raffy Tulfo have already declined the chairmanship. This leaves Cayetano as a possible contender for the permanent position.

Pia Cayetano Considers Leadership Role

Senator Pia Cayetano said she may consider taking on the role if officially offered the position. “I don’t know if it’s a formal offer. I just saw my name. And because my name was mentioned, it’s my job to consider it if there is a need to chair the Blue Ribbon Committee,” Cayetano said in a briefing.
Currently heading the Committee on Energy and the Committee on Ways and Means, Cayetano stressed the importance of the post. “I really want the best person for the job to handle this because this is a defining moment for the Filipino people,” she added.

Senate Leadership Expresses Confidence in Tulfo

Sotto described Tulfo as a good choice to lead the committee during this transition, emphasizing his boldness and experience. “He will bring the right mix of courage and investigative experience,” Sotto said. The Blue Ribbon Committee, often at the forefront of exposing government irregularities, is expected to continue key inquiries under Tulfo’s watch.
With his background in media and public service, Tulfo is seen as a capable interim leader who can uphold transparency, accountability, and independence while the Senate decides on a permanent chair.