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Manila Bulletin devider Philippines devider Poll official says bets absence in debates a red flag to voters

Poll official says bets absence in debates a red flag to voters

Published Feb 3, 2022 05:03 pm

For an official of the Commission on Elections, a candidate's absence in debates is a red flag to voters.

Comelec/MB

"Not a red flag for Comelec, but red flag for the voters, absolutely," Comelec Spokesperson James Jimenez said in a virtual press briefing Thursday, Feb. 3.

"For the Comelec, we don't care if they come or not. 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 added.

"Whether or not they come to the debate doesn't really matter to the Comelec, it matters to the people," said Jimenez.

That's why, he said, 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," Jimenez said.

The Comelec is looking to hold presidential and vice presidential debates from February to April ahead of the May 2022 polls.

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comelec spokesperson james jimenez Comelec Commission on Elections
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