Senator-elect Erwin Tulfo officially took his oath of office on Friday, not in a formal government building, but in a barangay hall in Quiapo, Manila—a symbolic move reflecting his grassroots advocacy.
Tulfo was sworn in by Barangay 307 Chairperson Johnny Dela Cruz, a longtime friend, at around 9:00 a.m. The senator-elect explained that choosing a barangay official to administer his oath underscores his commitment to being close to the people and addressing their concerns directly.
“As a devotee of the Black Nazarene, it’s meaningful for me to take my oath here in Quiapo. Barangays are the frontlines of government, and I want to work closely with them,” Tulfo said.
He also reiterated his push for a salary standardization law for barangay officials—one of his key legislative priorities.
Tulfo, who placed fourth in the 2025 senatorial race with over 17 million votes, plans to review the Rice Tariffication Law and file bills on land use and PhilHealth reform.
Regarding the upcoming impeachment trial of Vice President Sara Duterte, Tulfo emphasized neutrality, stating he would base his judgment on the evidence presented.
He joins his brother, Senator Raffy Tulfo, in the 20th Congress, forming a unique family tandem in the upper chamber.