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Manila Bulletin devider Philippines devider National devider Makabayan senatorial bets ready to face rivals in debate

Makabayan senatorial bets ready to face rivals in debate

Published Jan 30, 2025 05:50 am

At A Glance

  • The Makabayan bloc's senatorial hopefuls for the upcoming May 12 mid-term elections are ready to face their rivals in any debate ahead of the polls.

The Makabayan bloc's senatorial hopefuls for the upcoming May 12 mid-term elections are ready to face their rivals in any debate ahead of the polls.

This, as the miltant bloc welcomed on Thursday, Jan. 30, the Commission on Elections (Comelec)'s call on political candidates to engage in debate on issues affecting the people.

Makabayan observed that senatorial frontrunners seem to be avoiding debates to engage in discussions on issues, "and have instead relied on multi-million media advertising to secure an advantage in the elections".

"They do not wish to be tested in actual discussions for fear of being exposed," the bloc said.

​M​akabayan also called on media outlets to provide a platform for all senatorial candidates​ and not just the survey frontrunners.

​"To limit debate slots based on survey results is to reinforce the already unequal playing field that favors only the rich and powerful dynasties, while excluding candidates from the marginalized sectors​," the group said.

​"We thank the media outlets that have allowed Makabayan's candidates to air their platform and program and we look forward to engaging other candidates in a serious debate on what ails our nation and the solutions to these problems​," it added.

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Makabayan 2025 elections senatorial aspirants
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