Although the presidential bets were incomplete, an official of the Commission on Elections (Comelec) believes their presidential debate on Saturday, March 19, was highly successful.
An empty podium is seen on stage, which is alloted to former senator Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr., who declined the Comelec's invitation. (Noel B. Pabalate)
"It is not perfect but highly successful. Let us focus on those who are present and the things that they said and will be doing for the country," Comelec Commissioner George Garcia, the commissioner in charge of the poll body's Debate Committee, said in a message.
"We made the invitation and the magnificent nine arrived. How can we even ask for more?" he added.
During the presidential debate at Sofitel Tent in Pasay City, all presidential bets were present except for former Senator Ferdinand "Bongbong" Marcos Jr.
Present were Ernesto Abella, Leody de Guzman, Francisco “Isko Moreno” Domagoso, Norberto Gonzales, Panfilo Lacson, Emmanuel Pacquiao, Faisal Mangondato, Jose Montemayor Jr., and Vice President Leni Robredo.
The Comelec will also hold Vice-Presidential Debates on March 20. There will also be a second Presidential Debates on April 3.
The Presidential and Vice Presidential Town Hall Debates will be held on April 23 and 24, respectively.