Rama firm on decision against debate vs Osmeña

CEBU, Philippines - With a series of debates set for presidential and vice presidential candidates, the possibility of a debate for local candidates has again been raised.

However, Cebu City Mayor Michael Rama believes a debate between him and archenemy, former congressman Tomas Osmeña, is not necessary. Both are seeking for the mayoral post in coming May election.

In his regular press conference yesterday, Rama said he will not grant a debate with Osmeña.

 “Di ba niingon nako. Debate is only for those, kanang presidential that has always been a practice. Local, it’s never been a practice, simple as that. And strategically as a political person having been around and aware about since 1960s, plus kana akong kaatbang already lost,” Rama said, adding Osmeña’s camp has been concluding issues against him and that he does not want to see “liars.”

Rama said a debate is not needed in a local setup because according to him, all the presidential candidates have not become the president yet, while in the local scene, he has been the mayor for two terms already.

“So, don’t equate me with that presidential because in the presidential, all of them are candidates for president. They have not become a president. Me, I have become a mayor and this is my second term as a mayor. So, therefore dili ma pareha,” Rama said.

“Unya kaduha pa na na pildi nako. What that debate will bring us to? Hinumdumi, I already shared. They are not deserving for my presence. Why? Wala pa gani debate, nag-conclude na sila,” Rama said.

 “What the debate will be into? Entrenching their lies? I don’t think I will give them that authority,” Rama said.

Sought for comment, Osmeña said he thinks Rama will agree to a debate.  (FREEMAN)