Lawmakers back presidential debates

MANILA, Philippines - Congressmen led by Speaker Feliciano Belmonte Jr. supported yesterday the proposal to require all presidential candidates to participate in the regional debates being planned by the Commission on Elections (Comelec).

“It’s a good idea,” Belmonte said in a text message. He was referring to the proposal of former senator Richard Gordon for presidential aspirants to attend debates in all regions so that Filipinos throughout the country can assess their qualifications, track record and stand on issues.

Isabela Rep. Rodolfo Albano III described the proposed requirement as a “brilliant election reform suggestion.”

“Let’s support. We need debates in a structured manner where the candidates can discuss their qualifications, track record, platforms of governance and proposed solutions to national and local issues. I don’t think having a few debates where attendance is just optional would be enough to fully inform and educate our voters on how they choose our next president in May,” he said.

Though presidential aspirants cannot be forced to show up in the debates, Albano said he has no doubt that the Comelec can convince them to participate.

“It will be the loss of any candidate if he or she fails to show up. I’m sure they will be willing to answer questions or tangle with their opponents,” he added.

Quezon City Rep. Alfred Vargas said participation by all presidential aspirants would raise the quality of the debates.

“In this day and age, we should institute mechanisms to aid the transition from a personality-driven politics to an issues- and platform-based one. We can only achieve this through voters’ education and participation, and sensible debates among the candidates,” he said.

“I would also push for this not only for national candidates, but for local ones as well. Requiring candidates to join debates will be a game-changer in achieving our political maturity as a nation,” he said.

For his part, Rep. Jonathan de la Cruz of the party-list group Abakada said, “I agree with senator Gordon. The candidates should be asked what they propose to do if elected and what are their qualifications. This would ensure that they could do the job they are asking the people to vote them to.”