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Comelec: Absence of candidates in debates a ‘red flag’ for voters

By The President NewsPosted on
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MANILA – The Commission on Elections (Comelec) said on Thursday that the candidates’ refusal to participate in debates should serve as a “red flag” for voters in the upcoming national and local elections.

“Not a red flag for Comelec, but red flag for the voters, absolutely. But for the Comelec, we don’t care if they come or not,” Comelec spokesperson James Jimenez said in an online press briefing.

He stated that if candidates participate in debates, voters will be able to interact with them and learn about their plans and programs for the country.

“Ultimately, what the Comelec cares about is whether or not the public will have the opportunity to interrogate the candidates, their positions, their beliefs and so on,” he said.

“Whether or not they come to the debate doesn’t really matter to the Comelec, it matters to the people,” he added.

Jimenez stated that in the debates for presidential and vice presidential candidates that the poll body will hold, the podium allotted to a specific candidate will be left with their name still on it even if the aspirant does not show up.

“I think it is very important that in recognition of how important it is to the people that we acknowledge that they fail to show up. It is not to be glossed over, not ignored. We are going to have a podium right there with their name on it and no face above it. That’s their lookout,” he said.

The Comelec intends to hold three presidential and vice-presidential debates, the first of which will take place this month, the second in March, and the third in April.

They also intend to hold one in each of Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao.

During the May 2016 elections, the Comelec conducted three presidential debates in each of the three islands, as well as one vice presidential debate in Metro Manila.

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