1

I
       #RaffyTulfo #RaffyTulfoInAction “Ipa-Tulfo mo na iyan” … 

These are the shouts of the people in social media whenever they witness injustices and malpractices. It has
become the most powerful phrase used by Filipinos n asRoman mythology,
a word Justitia, or lady
of encouragement, justice,
a form is one oforthe
of threat, four virtues.
simply
a common courtesy to help someone She in need. Notice depicted
is frequently how Tulfo,
as aablindfolded
noun andwomanname wielding
of a person, became
a sword a She
and scales.
verb in the phrase “Ipa-Tulfo mo na iyan”. 
represents the administration of justice in a fair and equal manner, free of corruption,
favor, avarice, or prejudice.

But who is Tulfo and why did he become a symbol of help to some people? 

It is the family name of a 61-year-old Filipino broadcaster Rafael “Raffy” Teshiba Tulfo, a journalist,
columnist, radio presenter, and television personality. But more than that, he is recognized as the “champion
of the poor”, known for being a hard-hitting,Blaise
no-holds-barred commentator
Pascal a French on issues
philosopher and about abuses and
writer said, 
injustices committed by people in power. He fights for the down-trodden- many of whom are laborers who
flock to his radio show every day to seek his help. He is also known among his followers as “Mr. Action” and
“Idol Raffy”. To many, the program is their last bastion of hope and the closest thing to getting real justice in
‘Justice
the Philippines. (Lao, 2019). For the Filipinos, heand power must
embodies the be brought together
archetype so that
of a hero. whatever is just
A protagonist whomay be
powerful, and whatever is powerful may be just.'1
stands morally good in championing the truth for the oppressed. He does not cower to anyone who violates
the law or discriminates against other people even if these people are from the upper class. He has saved
many people by freeing them and serving them the justice they deserve locally and even abroad plus the
financial assistance he provides to the victims.
The popularity of his program transcends entertainment. People's tendency to turn to the show
reveals how it has emerged as an alternative mechanism for seeking justice despite the many criticisms of it
being a trial for publicity. However, it’s also very interesting to know that this phenomenon is not new
When power is gained via justice, it is frequently well-managed power. The
because in the 1990s, his brother Monfairness
had a similar show called
of the process "Isumbong
by which mo kay Tulfo,"
power is acquired which
will benefit aired in and
all sectors, a as a
variety of formats. Senator Rene Cayetano
result, people's belief in that power will remain unaffected. Language is the y
in 1998 also presented the public service program
2 "Compaero powerful
Compaera," which provided free legal assistance to viewers
instrument that bridgesandandlisteners. It was
legitimizes succeededofin power
the attainment 2000 by in Mike
justice. The
misuse Imbestigador.
Enriquez's investigative docudrama program and manipulation3 of language can either empower or poison the intention of
using power and attaining justice. The Philippine justice system and the looked-upon

1
See Pascal, B. (2010). DNA Retrieved from https://www.dnaindia.com/analysis/sutra-justice-and-power
2
See Pascal, B. (2010). DNA Retrieved from https://www.dnaindia.com/analysis/sutra-justice-and-power
23
Eugenio, Ara. (2020 December 21). Why Raffy Tulfo Means Justice for the Filipino Everyman. Retrieved from www.reportr.world
 There was also Amy Perez's Face-to-Face on TV5. It advertised itself as a "Barangay hall on-air,"
settling issues that are typically brought to the Barangay courts informally. This trial of publicity has been
happening since then and despite its reputation, it is undeniable that it has helped many, especially the poor in
attaining justice. It is worth considering that maybe this is the system that sits well here in the Philippines and
to the Filipinos. However, as we look into it, the popularity of these shows, specifically the Raffy Tulfo in Action,
mirrors something we have in our culture…. 

People talk. 

All the time and most of the time we talk about people, events, and situations. For Filipinos, it’s called “chismis”
or tsismis”. In an article published by the Philippine Association of Service Exporters, Inc., Gossiping is a stain
from our culture.4 Many people would argue that gossip connotes something negative, but they missed seeing
the bigger picture of it. Gossiping is a high form of entertainment and has recreational value. Interestingly,
gossiping had helped Filipinos survive against the Spaniards during their colony. It was through a series of
gossip that helped build relationships and form alliances to fight against the Spanish colony. It is in this culture
that the program Raffy Tulfo in Action gained more popularity. It has also helped solve and complicate the
cases issued in the program as many people would talk about it and share their opinions 24/7, as explicit and
without shame, in showbiz gossip shows, newspaper columns and blogs, Youtube, Facebook, Television news
as well as in camouflaged forms, that is sometimes even converted into scholarly “commentaries” and
“analyses.” 

The program has been seen as a free, rapid, and convenient way to attain justice. It quickly finds resolution in
a single episode as opposed to being required to appear in court for years. Tulfo also connects to the masses,
to which his clients also belong, on a personal level. To a certain extent, the poor Filipino people, do depend on
the program as a popular, exploitative, but relatively functional alternative to poor government services and
regulations. Because, frankly, to them, it might be the best they can have. 

All of these advantages speak volumes about access to justice. 

Still, on the other side of the coin…. 

34
See James (2019, September 12). Chismis: Is Filipino Gossip Stain On Its Culture.
 Raffy Tulfo’s name and his program have
been constantly called out in Twitter posts
of netizens who express not only their
sentiments to the program but to the
Philippine justice system as well. The way
these folks talk about what's going on in
our country's judicial system reveals that
we're dealing with a corrupt system that
not only keeps victims from getting justice
but also punishes those who try to stand
up to it.

What happened to the Philippine justice

system? Can we really trace the reasons
why we clamor for Tulfo Justice from our
backyards?
The Supreme Court of the Philippines is the result of Philippine Commission Act No. 136 on June 11,
1901.5 The Spaniards founded the Real Audiencia de Manila, which provided a backdrop and suitable context for
recounting the history of the modern Supreme Court. When the Americans invaded and occupied the Philippines
in the late 1890s, it ushered in substantial changes in the country's control, disposition, and government. It's
reasonable to assume that colonial rhetoric and influence have influenced our legal system. It’s safe to say that
colonial discourse and influence have had an impact on our justice system.
What makes it more alienating to the Filipinos is its medium of instruction which is English given the fact
that the Philippine
The Philippines justice
ranked 91stsystem
out ofis128structured
nations following the Justice
in the World American way. They
Project's (WJP) cry2020
for their
Ruleinadequacy
of Law Index. to
understand and engage in the discussion since most of them are not literate in
Since 2016, the country's score has been falling. Presently, the Philippine Government has organized and the English language. When it
comes to defending their rights, they become at a loss for words. Despite the
established institutions that provide peace and order. These institutions organized by the Government have interpretation services being
offered to non-native
incorporated themselves English speakers,
to establish still, a lot
a Criminal is lostSystem
Justice during the
thattranslation process.
will look after a safeEspecially
and peaceful to indigenous
society. 6 It
was never meant to become a mechanism of oppression, but rather it was intended as an instrumentand
people, this language barrier is a major detriment in voicing out their truths. The lack of skill to comprehend of
communicate
restorative in English
justice putstothem
that leads in peace.
lasting a very Thevulnerable position
Universal as theyofbecome
Declaration open toemphasizes
Human Rights becoming victims of
that every
manipulation
human being and deceit.
has the rightThat is why and
to equality theyfair
findjustice,
Raffy ‘presumption
in Tulfo in Action closer to and
of innocence homethebecause
right to ahefair
speaks in a
and public
language that the masses speak and understand.
hearing by a competent established law. In other words, it is closely linked to the functioning of a fair, legitimate,
and effective justice system. 
Also lingering in the four corners of the Philippine courts is the Padrino System which we have inherited from the
Spanish colonizers. This system is ingrained in our society and has served as a tool for corruption, with the most
Although this is often becoming
active players being those in positions of authority. People who engage in and misuse this system have the
increasingly difficult to achieve in the Philippines,
confidence to commit corruption since they have their Padrino to protect them because of their connections.
additionally, there appears to be an imbalance
This has a significant impact on how justice is administered in the country. This widens the divide between the
within the justice system, with a scarcity of judges,
wealthy and the poor. It does not lead to a better life for the poor. So, we could not blame people who7 need
prosecutors, and public defense attorneys. Many
assurance to win their case and would help them in any way that Tulfo can help. In a system that seems to
poor people are denied the right to bail because
reward only power and influence, Tulfo would allow them to fight power and influence. However, people must
they lack the financial means to rent the simplest
keep in mind that what is always seen in the media is not always all that there is.
lawyers and to file for bail. The Philippines also
features a long history of corruption. There has
Some seek justice that has not seen light. What happens behind the scenes? What compromises are
always been a suspicion of corruption within the
made? 
judiciary during the amount following the depletion
of EDSA funds. Bribery takes the shape of an
In an interview with Philstar Entertainment, Tulfo was asked if their writers stick to facts or if they
anonymous call or the utilization of intermediaries
practiced cinematic license. This involves the glamorization or exaggeration of events and actions for the sake
like relatives and employees. That is why, as for
of an exciting television experience.9 This often provokes controversy because this can lead to misinterpretation
the lack of any euphemisms, it has been called
and this artful propaganda pushes some personal agenda. Tulfo answered the 8topic by noting that his authors
out as ‘anti-poor’.
stick to the original radio versions of the story. They do, however, occasionally use cinematic license for
dramatic effect. When the complaint says he or she was pinched (kinurot), they will modify the verb to slapped
(sinampal), but only with the complainant's permission.
45
See History of the Supreme Court of the Philippines. Retrieved from sc.judiciary.gov.ph
6
Bravo, C. (n. d.) PHILIPPINE CRIMINAL JUSTICE SYSTEM. Retrieved from https://www.unafei.or.jp/publications/pdf/RS_No90/No90_22PA_Bravo
7
Valenzuela, R. (2016) International Review of the Red Cross. Retrieved from https://international-review.icrc.org/sites/default/files/irrc-903-
8
Bakker, J. (1997, September 3). The Philippine Justice System. The Independence and Impartiality of the Judiciary and Human Rights.
59
The Philippine Star (2021, January 24). Idol Raffy, Action Man. Retrieved from www.philstar.com
 Slapping gives a more serious and aggravated tone than a pinch and their semantic meaning is heavily
different. As this use of the language registers to the mind of the viewers, so is their feelings and judgment of
what’s happening.

So, there has not been an objective reality but what we see is a product of the discourse that the program has
provided because getting these facts straight, it's still business powered by capitalism. More than anything, the
program is still there for entertainment. Raffy Tulfo is poised as the biggest Filipino Youtuber this 2021. The
program has penetrated most social media platforms with millions of followers which also means millions of
money to earn. The more people who come for the program to ask for help, the more issues they can also
capitalize on. That is why it's hard to find the fine line between the program’s call for  ‘justice’ or ‘entertainment’. 

Raffy Tulfo was thrown into hot water in November when the Department of Education looked into a
case involving a teacher who was urged by him to resign her job and give up her license on his television show.
This angered netizens, who went to social media to express their disappointment that the teacher was not given
the appropriate procedure that she deserved. Some further pointed out that Tulfo's program lacked the power to
resolve such disagreements and make legally binding conclusions.

A similar study was conducted on this specific episode, using Critical Discourse Analysis. It revealed that
several violations were made on the Conversational maxims of manner, quality, quantity, and relation. It
showed several instances where ways of social power abuse, control, dominance, and inequality were
observed and perpetuated. The results are crucial and relevant because if the program claims to help people
get the justice that they deserve, we cannot be sure that there is a due process being followed and if it’s made
fair. 

There is another episode where Tulfo recalibrated the course of the case when the people from the upper class
of society started to interfere and influence the show. It’s messed up when social supremacy as a card is put on
the table and how the kind of power enforced by these classes, through language, is weaponized to maintain
social structure. 
 Pierre Bourdieu, a french sociologist, believed that society is divided into different classes. His Social
Class Theory asserts the idea that those from the Bothtop of this
justice andclass
power, areaccording
the rulingtoand thePascal,
Blaise intellectuals
must bewhobrought
preserve their social privileges by distancing themselves
together. Justicefromwouldthebelower class and
weakened if it that their
lacked position
power. in society
Power, on the other
gives their language the agency to exercise howwould
hand, powerbe is oppressive
transferred ifand socialjustice.
it lacked order isAllmaintained
people's rights,within safety,
and and
across generations. This can also be linked privileges will be uncorrupted and safeguarded as a result toof the
to Stella Ting Toomey’s theory on Face Negotiation. According
her view, everyone has a face or an identity that they useoftopower
establishment showvia themselves
justice. Astoaothers.
result, Facework
language must refersbe to utilized
the as
communication methods people employ toa leveler build, maintain,
to achieveorarestore
balancea so chosen
that a social
fair andidentity
functionalto others
societywhen
may exist.
they engage. Those from the higher social classes do a lot of face work to save their faces when threatened so
their social order is maintained. This facework
What could
happenedeven to encompass abuse of power
both the Philippines Justiceand inequality
System towards
and Tulfo Justice is
the lower class.  that language no longer equalizes power and justice. Instead, it has been
weaponized, as justified with the colonial shadows from the past, and has
been taken advantage by the people from the ruling classes. The use of
The episode involved Super Tekla who isEnglish a comedian and television
as a legal language host in thein one of GMA
Philippine Network’s
Justice System variety
has also
shows and his live-in partner Michelle Lhorbecome
Banaag.a Michelle went to
major barrier thehas
that program
enforced and the
accused
dividethe of comedian
the poor from of the
sexual harassment and child abuse. Immediately a lot ofAlso,
justice system. hate the
comments were thrown
power abuse, against
the selfish the comedian.
interest to maintain the
Meanwhile, a lot of people sympathize withsocialMichelle.
order,It and
was thea complete
disease of Face
the loss for Super
chismis cultureTekla especially
and Padrino as has
system
a Public Figure. However, in the next episodes, we see how the dynamics of power worked.
all led to an imbalanced ecosystem where the prey consumes in greed. Raffy Tulfo asked
for Tekla to speak and defend his side butTherefore,
refused topowerdo so and to protect the management
its origin become a powerful with which he is still that
combination in can
contract.  either make or break a group through stability or instability. In our case, the
latter. We cannot blame the people who call out the Philippine justice
But isn't it a move to protect his Face too? system as corrupt and anti-poor as much we also cannot blame the poor
who clamor for Tulfo justice. Tomorrow, Tulfo will still be a folk hero, and
Donita Nose, his co-host, Ogie Diaz, some hiswill
friend,
say and his manager
rightfully so. Tomorrow,Rose Conde all spoke
there will be newonpeople behalf lining
of up
Tekla in the next episodes. They accused Michelle as a gambler, a drug addict, and that
outside his studio waiting to tell their stories because they see no better it’s orchestrated
towards putting Tekla down. The gravity ofoption.
their words and their status in society caused a major turnaround to
the case. Meanwhile, Michelle’s sister, friend, and niece, who are just ordinary citizens of the country and
belonged to the lower class of society, spoke in Justitia
defense or of her
ladybut to no isavail.
justice What was
blindfolded supposed
because to be an the
it represents
issue of Sexual Abuse and Child Abuse against Teklaand
impartiality was now focused
objectivity of theonlaw Michelle
and that being the liar,
it doesn’t letthe addict,
outside factors,
the ‘manggagamit’. They were able to save Tekla’s face even without him showing and defending
such as politics, wealth, or fame, influence its decisions. However, both the his side
throughout the episodes. Raffy Tulfo alsoPhilippine
did an excellent job in saving
Justice system and the his Tulfo
face to save has
Justice himselflost from
partsthe of their
embarrassment of siding with Michelle in the first episodes.
objectivity and impartiality as it has been influenced and abused by the
people from the upper class and by a system structured by colonialism.

Sadly, Justitia has been blindfooled.