Binay backs out of debate with Trillanes

MANILA, Philippines - Vice President Jejomar Binay on Tuesday backed out of his highly anticipated debate with Sen. Antonio Trillanes IV.

In an interview with media, Binay said he is backing out because of the perception that he has the upper hand in the debate, as claimed by Trillanes.

Binay said he does not want to appear as someone who will take advantage of Trillanes, who is portraying himself as the underdog for lacking experience in public debates.

"Hindi na. Ayaw ko na. Dahil sa pang-iintriga nito (Trillanes)," Binay said in an interview with reporters, which was later shown on television.

"Ayaw ko naman... ang maging pagkakakilala ninyo sa akin mga kababayan ay mapang-api, mapagsamantala," he added.

Binay said his decision is final, which he announced during his 72nd birthday anniversary at the Navy headquarters.

The Vice President had challenged Trillanes to the debate, which was supposed to take place on November 27 as scheduled by the Kapisanan ng mga Brodkaster ng Pilipinas.

Trillanes had said that the now-cancelled debate will be a "mismatch" in favor of Binay since he is 30-year veteran in Philippine politics and a human rights lawyer who is "presumed to be a master of argumentation and debate."

Despite Binay's supposed advantage, Trillanes had been expecting him to call off the debate.

Trillanes has accused Binay of profiting from various projects in Makati City, including an alleged overpriced parking building.

He also accused the Vice President of using dummies to conceal his ill-gotten wealth such as a 350-hectare property in Rosario town, Batangas.

Last week, Binay snubbed the Senate Blue Ribbon Committee hearing on the corruption allegations against him.