Hard-hitting TV host reveals what ticks him off

BROTHER’S KEEPER. “T3” hosts Raffy, Erwin and Ben Tulfo

Toughness is a must in his job, says broadcast journalist Erwin Tulfo. He told the Inquirer at the launch of “T3: Kapatid, Sagot Kita,” TV5’s new public service program, which he cohosts with brothers Raffy and Ben:  “People can be stubborn. To put your point across, sometimes you have to shove it in their faces, especially those who play dumb.”

Sometimes accused of being confrontational and mercurial, Erwin said that he’s actually fair and even-tempered when dealing with troublemakers. “I assess every situation carefully, and I’m always straightforward with suspects.”

But when a suspect dilly-dallies or justifies his actions, sparks are sure to fly. “Some would ask, who do you think you are? Are you a cop? What authority do you have? They really tick me off, especially when I know I’m right,” he admitted.

What really blows his fuse, though, are criminals who prey on children and women: “The worst part is when the suspect is in a position of authority.”

Although prone to lashing out at the guilty, Erwin insisted that he has never laid a finger on anyone.

Needless to say, he gets to eat death threats for breakfast, so to speak. He gets by with the help of bodyguards and prayers. “When I get home at the end of each day, I always thank God for taking me back safely to my family.” he said.

Asked whether “T3” would entertain complaints against celebrities

—as did Radyo Inquirer’s “Isumbong Mo Kay Tulfo (anchored by his older brother Mon) Erwin said: “Even if they’re celebrities…beg your pardon. But of course, I will get their side.”

“T3” airs weekdays, 5:30 p.m.