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Manila Bulletin

Philippines

Pandemic, economy take spotlight in 1st presidential debate

Philippines

Pandemic, economy take spotlight in 1st presidential debate

By Leslie Ann Aquino

The pandemic and the economy.

Comelec/MB

These will be the topics in the first Pilipinas Debates of the Commission on Elections (Comelec) which will kick off on Saturday, March 19, at Sofitel Tent in Pasay City.

In an interview, Comelec Spokesperson James Jimenez said the said topics for the first preside tila debate were chosen as these are the two biggest things on the minds of everyone right now.

He said everything is set and the candidates or their represenatives were already briefed about the event.

Asked if they received a written refusal from any of the candidates, Jimenez answered negatively.

All presidential bets have already confirmed their participation except for Ferdinand "Bongbong" Marcos Jr.

When asked what will happen of Marcos Jr. shows up on the day itself, he replied:"Will see what hapens if he shows up tomorrow but as of right now we hve no information that he will."

Jimenez also assured candidates that will attend that they will be treated fairly and impartially.

"We will make sure that all candidates are treated fairly and impartially. That the questions will be focused on issues rather than personalities. I hope he (Marcos Jr) watches so that he'll see that this is exactly how its gonna turnout," he said.

Comelec Commissioner George Garcia said they will respect the decision of a candidate if they will skip the debates.

"That's their prerogative. That's their right...if that's a matter of strategy on their part or their camp, we respect," he said.

The debate will start at 7 p.m. and may be viewed in local channels as well as the social media accounts of the Comelec.

Related Tags

comelec spokesperson james jimenez PILIPINAS DEBATES 2022 Comelec Commission on Elections

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