As organized political debates are deemed invaluable for the electorate, the Commission on Elections (Comelec) is now accepting accreditation of independently organized debates.

Candidates, through the conduct of debates, are given equal opportunity and venue to lay out their platforms and speak their minds about the pressing issues of the society, affecting the lives of voters.

The Comelec has recently issued Resolution No. 10764 or the guidelines for accreditation of debates in connection with the May 2022 polls.

According to the poll body, accreditation applicants must submit all documentary requirements for national debate, forum, or interview series to the Information Division of the Comelec’s Education and Information Department.

“All documentary requirements for a Local Debate, Forum, or Interview Series shall be submitted to the corresponding Office of the Regional Election Director, within 48 hours from the submission of the complete documentary requirements by the applicant, the Comelec shall issue a Certification to the effect that the accreditation of the National /Local Debate, Forum, or Interview Series, has been granted,” it stated.

Comelec said applicants must submit a letter of intent which is addressed to the Director IV of the Education and Information Department or the Regional Election Director.

They are also required to provide hard copies of invitations to participate in the national/local debate, forum, or interview, with proof of receipt or service; and an affidavit of compliance with minimum health protocols as mandated by the Inter-Agency Task Force for the Management of Emerging Infectious Diseases (LATF-MEID), “provided that the Affidavit shall cover all activities related to the staging of the National/ Local Debate, Forum, or Interview Series.”