Senator Erwin Tulfo on Wednesday reminded government officials that participating in any form of gambling is strictly prohibited, following incidents where two members of the House of Representatives were seen engaging in online gambling activities during congressional sessions. During a plenary meeting, one representative was observed watching e-sabong, a form of electronic cockfighting, on his mobile phone. Another member was also spotted playing an online billiards game during the opening session of the 20th Congress.

Expressing his disappointment, Tulfo said, "It was very frustrating to witness this kind of behavior. We are here at Congress, and this should not be happening." He questioned the lawmakers’ priorities, stating, "I don’t understand why they feel the need to do this. They should be focusing on their duties."

Having served as a party-list representative in the previous 19th Congress, Tulfo emphasized that disciplining these members falls under the jurisdiction of the House ethics committee. He suggested that the involved representatives should explain their actions and offer an apology.

"Even if voting for the speakership can be tedious, you are expected to perform your job diligently. You are being paid by the people; therefore, gambling during sessions is unacceptable," Tulfo asserted.

Reiterating the rules, the senator underscored that gambling is forbidden for all government officials and employees, adding, "My point is, it is prohibited, and public servants should prioritize their duties over such activities."