Mandatory presidential debate in RP has no legal basis - poll lawyer

MANILA, Philippines – An election lawyer on Monday said the mandatory presidential debates proposed by a Commission on Elections (Comelec) official has no legal basis. A radio report quoted lawyer Romulo Macalintal as saying that holding mandatory presidential debates is not included in the Constitutional requirements for those who intend to run for presidency. A separate report over dzBB radio also quoted Macalintal as saying that the Comelec can only "invite" presidential candidates for a debate and that no penalties may be imposed on those who refuse to be part of the debates. Last week, Malacañang welcomed Comelec Commissioner Rene Sarmiento’s proposal for the conduct of mandatory presidential debates, saying this may be a good way to help voters decide on who to vote. Deputy Presidential Spokesman Anthony Golez Jr said it is a good idea to have such debates to educate voters in time for the next presidential election, but said Malacañang is leaving it up to the Comelec to look into the matter. "Pinauubaya natin yan sa Comelec. Kung ‘yan ang pananaw nila sila ang expert diyan (We leave that to the Commission on Elections. If that is its opinion, they are the experts there)," Golez said on government-run dzRB radio. Golez said the present government will support whatever initiative is proposed to bolster the country's democratic processes. - GMANews.TV