Tulfo says VP Duterte impeachment ‘not a teleserye,’ vows impartiality in trial

Metro Manila, Philippines - Senator-elect Erwin Tulfo said he is ready to take on the role of an impeachment judge, as the 20th Congress braces for the looming trial of Vice President Sara Duterte.

In an interview with NewsWatch Plus, Tulfo emphasized the gravity of the responsibility, saying the Senate must act based on facts and not political leanings.

“This isn’t a teleserye. We’re talking about removing the second highest official in the land from office, and possibly barring her from running again. That’s not something we take lightly,” he said.

Tulfo, who ranked fourth in the May 2025 senatorial race, drew from his experience as a journalist, saying the values of fairness and fact-checking will guide him in the proceedings.

“As journalists, we’re trained to look at both sides. May nag-aakusa—what’s your evidence? The defense—what do they have? You weigh the facts. Ganun din dapat dito,” Tulfo explained.

[Translation: As journalists, we’re trained to look at both sides. Someone accuses—what’s your evidence? The defense—what do they have? You weigh the facts. It should be the same here.]

He added that any decision must be based solely on documents and evidence presented by both the prosecution and defense.

“Kung mali, then so be it. Bahala nang magalit ang iba. But if it lacks merit, then we dismiss it. Why waste time? The public will be watching us closely,” he said.

[Translation: If it's wrong, then so be it. Let people be angry if they must. But if the case has no merit, then we dismiss it. Why waste time? The public will be watching us closely.]

Tulfo's statement comes amid similar calls from fellow newly-elected senators, who urged for impartiality and unity in their proclamation speeches.

Topping the senatorial race, Senator Bong Go said the trial must hinge on evidence. “Kung walang ebidensya, eh ‘di wala. Sayang lang ‘yung oras kung ipipilit,” he said.

[Translation: If there's no evidence, then there's nothing. It's a waste of time if we force it.]

Senator Ping Lacson, who is returning to the chamber, said the House must present strong and credible evidence to convince at least 16 senators to convict Duterte.

“We will be answerable to the Filipino people,” he said.

Senator Imee Marcos, who was re-elected under the PDP slate, also vowed to scrutinize the evidence carefully, while Senator Rodante Marcoleta, a Duterte ally who opposed the impeachment filing in the House, claimed the case was flawed from the start

Duterte’s impeachment trial is expected to begin on July 30.