The Commission on Elections (Comelec) is backing the conduct of debates ahead of the Bangsamoro Autonomous Regions in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) Parliamentary Elections (BPE) next month.
In an interview Monday, Comelec Chairperson George Garcia noted that having such activity will allow the return of campaign based on substance.
“We welcome that. It allows us to return to campaigning based on substance — campaigning grounded in principles, rather than personal attacks or the practice of hauling in crowds,” he said.
Garcia noted that debates are necessary, even for the 2028 elections.
“Campaigns should focus on issues that matter to the public. We support that,” the poll body chief added.
When asked if the Comelec is looking to hold debates for the May 2028 presidential polls, he said, “We are considering it.”
“However, in our view, what happened in 2022 wasn’t right. We need a media entity to sponsor the debates, just like in 2016. The Comelec should merely be an observer or a guest; we shouldn’t be the ones spending, nor should public funds be used. But we will certainly encourage media entities to host debates,” he said.
“We will support that. We want to avoid a repeat of the issues that arose during the 2022 debates,” he added, noting that such platform will be an advantage to both voters and bets.
“It is better to participate. This allows our fellow citizens to gauge the preparedness of the candidates—not just for the presidency, but for all positions—and to see their stance on issues vital to the nation. That is the value of a debate,” Garcia said.
In 2022, the Comelec had to cancel the final rounds of the PiliPinas Debates due to an unpaid debt of its event partner, Impact Hub Manila, to the venue host, Sofitel Philippine Plaza Manila, amounting to PHP14 million. (PNA)