Rep. Erwin Tulfo takes oath as ACT-CIS party-list representative

THE House of Representatives on Monday welcomed a new member in Erwin T. Tulfo after the new Representative of ACT-CIS partylist formally took his oath before Speaker Martin Romualdez during the second regular session.

Tulfo, took his oath after the Commission on Elections (Comelec) announced last July 20 that it had issued a certificate of proclamation to Tulfo, who was named ACT-CIS’ third nominee.

Tulfo, who is the fourth nominee of the said partylist, replaced former Cong. Jeffrey Soriano (third nominee) who vacated his post last Feb. 2023.

Tulfo, automatically replacing Soriano as provided under Section 16 of the Republic Act 7491.

It can be recalled that ACT-CIS won three House seats after gathering over 2.1 million votes during the May 2022 elections.

Despite the motion to disqualify Tulfo, the Comelec earlier ruled to allow Tulfo to become a replacement nominee for the ACT-CIS partylist in the Congress. The ruling by all of the Commissioner of Comelec affirmed an earlier decision by its Second Division.

The Comelec said it found “no compelling reason to reverse or to modify” the second division’s verdict.

In a statement, Tulfo thanked the House of Representatives particularly under Speaker Martin Romualdez for the warm welcome as he assured his full support to the current leadership

“Maraming salamat sa mainit na pagtanggap, lalo na kay Speaker Martin Romualdez. I am sending my full support to the current leadership in Congress particularly for their dedication to advancing important legislation. The current leadership in Congress are essential for the progress and well-being of our nation,” Tulfo said in a statement.

Tulfo added that his representation will place a strong emphasis in advocating for the poor, marginalized, and vulnerable through empowering education and accessible healthcare.

Tulfo also vowed to prioritize his support on inclusive policies, equal opportunities and social safety nets that can address the socioeconomic disparities to create a more equitable nation.

“Makaaasa po kayo na ako po ang magiging kakampi ng mga mahihirap at ng inaapi sa Kongreso, katulad po ng matagal ko nang ginagawa,” Tulfo said.