The Commission on Elections (Comelec) is considering making participation in election debates mandatory for candidates in the May 2025 national, local, and Bangsamoro parliamentary polls. Comelec Chairman George Garcia stated that they are exploring the possibility of issuing a resolution requiring candidates to attend debates as part of their election rules. While there is no existing law compelling candidates to participate, the Comelec believes that debates are crucial for voters to understand candidates' stances on various issues and make informed decisions.
THE Commission on Elections on Friday, January 24, 2025, said it is prepared to require candidates in the May 2025 national, local, and Bangsamoro parliamentary polls to participate in forthcoming debates with their fellow bets. In a radio interview, Comelec Chairman George Garcia said they are open to making debate participation as one of the rules of the poll body for would-be candidates during elections. 'It is the obligation of candidates to follow all our rules and regulations.
The poll chief cited as an example their rules on the sizes of campaign materials, submission of pictures, and registering their social media accounts. 'There is no such law that can compel candidates to attend . But we can try that by making it part of our rules,' said Garcia. In past elections, the Comelec has organized election debates for candidates. But while attendance is strongly encouraged, the Comelec cannot compel candidates to participate in the debates.
Elections Comelec Debates Candidates Voters
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