Comelec sets rules for debate accreditation

MANILA, Philippines — The Commission on Elections (Comelec) has released guidelines for the accreditation of debates and fora in connection with the May 9 national and local elections.

The Comelec issued Resolution 10764, dated Feb. 23, pertaining to the guidelines for accreditation of independently organized debates.

It issued the resolution after several television networks and other organizations expressed their intent to stage their own presidential, vice presidential debates, senatorial debates and fora.

“The guidelines shall only cover the accreditation of national/local independently organized debates, fora, or interview series. Individual interviews with individual candidates shall not be covered by these guidelines,” the poll body said.

The applicant shall submit all documentary requirements for national debate, forum or interview series to the information division of the Comelec’s education and information department.

For local debate, organizers of documentary forum or interview series should submit requirements to the Office of the Regional Election Driver.

“Within 48 hours from submission of the complete documentary requirements by the applicant, the Comelec shall issue a certification to the effect that the accreditation of the national/local debate, forum, or interview series has been granted,” the commission said.

The required documents include a letter of intent that shall contain the following declarations: a manifestation that the applicant intends to stage a national/local debate, forum, or interview series, involving the candidates of the specified elective position; a manifestation that all the official candidates for the elective position have been duly invited to participate and a manifestation of the applicant’s commitment to the principles of impartiality and non-partisanship.

The Comelec will also require the submission of hard copies of invitations to participate, with proof of receipt or service and an affidavit of compliance with minimum health protocols in all the activities relative to the events.