COMMISSION on Elections (Comelec) Chair George Garcia has issued a call to candidates for the 2025 elections, urging them to participate in debates and engage directly with voters.
While acknowledging that the Comelec cannot force candidates to attend debates, Garcia emphasized that candidates have a responsibility to uphold the rules and regulations set by the commission, which include participating in debates.
“We hope they will show the voters that they are not afraid to answer questions,” Garcia told reporters. “Di tayo takot mag-file ng candidacy, how much more yung humarap ka na lang sa sambayanan at iparamdam, ipakita sa kanila na may pinapanindigan tayo (If we were not afraid to file our candidacy, how much more when we face the people and let them feel, show them, that we stand for something).”
This call comes as a reminder that debates play a crucial role in informing voters and allowing them to assess candidates’ positions on key issues. Garcia’s statement suggests that the Comelec views participation in debates as a sign of commitment to transparency and accountability.
The 2025 elections are still over two years away, but the Comelec’s early call for candidate participation in debates underscores the importance of engaging voters in the electoral process. It remains to be seen how candidates will respond to this call and whether they will prioritize direct engagement with voters through debates.
