When justice becomes viral, who really wins?

It’s 2025. Someone offends you, violates your rights—or just gives you a dirty look. What’s your instinctive response?

Do you call your lawyer? File a police report?

Or do you grab your phone and broadcast your grievance on social media?

For many, the default solution is going public, hoping that the court of public opinion—and sometimes public shame—will resolve the issue faster than any court ever could.

Social Media as the New Courtroom

In the Philippines, one name has become synonymous with televised justice: Raffy Tulfo.

In Raffy Tulfo in Action, disputes are aired live—often emotionally charged, dramatic, and incredibly public. The complainant presents their side; the respondent is either brought in or contacted live; and the matter is mediated by the host.

Two common outcomes follow:

• Voluntary settlement, where both parties agree to Mr. Tulfo’s guidance.
• Moral pressure, where the respondent is pushed to concede—sometimes publicly shamed into submission.

The episode ends. The parties shake hands. The video is uploaded to YouTube, where it racks up millions of views and ad revenue.

Problem solved? Not quite.

The Illusion of Resolution

Behind the scenes, things are less certain:

• No legal enforcement: Any settlement made on the show is voluntary and often not legally binding.
• The complainant still has no formal recourse if the respondent later backs out.
• The respondent may suffer reputational damage—even if the issue is misrepresented or unresolved.
• The show earns substantial income from these episodes, with estimated earnings ranging from ₱3.2 million to ₱50 million per month.

Publicly resolving issues may feel satisfying—but when parties don’t follow through, there’s no legal fallback.

Legal Reality Check

Only the courts—not television shows—can issue binding decisions on enforceable legal rights.

According to our legal system, settlements made under pressure, without legal representation, or in a public setting may not be upheld in court. Only a formal judgment from a court of law ensures compliance—backed by legal remedies and enforcement.

What You Should Do Instead

Thinking of going to Mr. Tulfo for help?

You’re within your rights to do so—but be aware of the risks:

• The other party cannot be forced to attend.
• Any agreement made might not hold up in court.
• You may expose yourself to public backlash or liability.

✅ Step 1: Consult a Lawyer

Don’t assume legal help is expensive. Visit your Public Attorney’s Office (PAO) or local legal aid office. These lawyers are free and well-versed in grassroots disputes.

✅ Step 2: Barangay Conciliation

Before you file a case, most neighborhood disputes must go through Barangay-level mediation—a fast, cost-free, and often effective first step.

✅ Step 3: Pursue Formal Legal Action

If no agreement is reached, your lawyer can assist in filing a complaint or case through formal channels, ensuring your rights are protected and enforceable.

What If You’re the One Being “Tulfo-ed”?

Did you receive an invitation to appear on the show?

Short answer: You are not obligated to attend.

Reasons to Decline:

• It’s voluntary—no private individual can compel you.
• Statements made on air can be used against you later.
• Resolution is not guaranteed, and your reputation may suffer.

If you're open to resolving the issue, opt for confidential mediation or legal dialogue—not public spectacle.

Real Justice is Quiet, Firm, and Legal

Social media justice may be loud, fast, and viral—but it is often temporary and unenforceable.

True justice doesn’t need an audience. It needs process.

Need Legal Advice?

If you're facing a legal dispute or want to better understand your rights, Our Office offers reliable and confidential legal guidance through our network of volunteer lawyers.

Coffee is appreciated, but legal advice is always free.

This Article first appeared in politixxx.today in 2020