Filipinos were once again given a chance to scrutinize the presidential candidates in this year's election as nine aspirants participated again in the debate organized by the Commission on Elections (Comelec) on Sunday, April 3.
Vice President Leni Robredo, Manila Mayor Isko Moreno Domogoso, Senators Panfilo Lacson and Manny Pacquiao, former Presidential Spokesperson Ernesto Abella, Labor Leader Leody de Guzman, former Defense Secretary Norberto Gonzales, Dr. Jose Montemayor, and businessman Faisal Mangondato attended the debate.
Only former senator Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos was not present during the event.
Among the questions that were asked to the candidates include the cause of corruption, political dynasties, switching of political parties, their views about the partylist system, foreign policy–particularly on how to protect the welfare of overseas Filipino workers, importance of human rights, issues about drug-related extrajudicial killings, solutions on climate change, potable water supply, among others.
Netizens were also quick to share their thoughts regarding the views of the candidates during the second Comelec presidential debate.
“Kudos to the 9 presidentiables present. Mad respect to each and every one of you for presenting yourselves to the voters,” said Facebook user Dop Mendoza in his comment on the Manila Bulletin’s Facebook page.
Facebook user Fides Anne Molina praised the performance of both Abella and Lacson. “Mr. Abella and Sen. Lacson answered well in the political dynasty question,” she commented on the Manila Bulletin’s page.
Twitter user @icedcoffee43, meanwhile, agreed with the answer of Moreno when it comes to ensuring clean water supply in the country.
"Isko’s plans for clean water supply is simple, concise & practical. Ang simple lang pero doable. Napag-isipan na ang possible consequences at may alternative plan of action na.That’s proactiveness & creativity. That’s leadership," tweeted @icedcoffee43.
Some netizens also took note of the composure of Gonzales during his debate performance.
"I aspire to have norberto gonzales' level of calmness," said Twitter user @jblanchett_
"Kung sinuman ang mananalong presidente, it would be awesome to offer Sir Norberto Gonzales a seat in the cabinet. I'm too young so I ain't really familiar with what he's done during PGMA, but he seems very knowledgeable," said Twitter user @PeterToshBot.
Netizens also lauded the plans and views of Robredo on the different topics during the debate.
“I love how Leni breaks down everything step by step. Shows how she organizes her thoughts and how she will do her processes. Leni for President. She has my vote!!!,” said Facebook user Josh Deocareza.
“VP Leni never fails to deliver her plans clearly,” said Facebook user Rossaine Alessandra.