Namfrel thumbs down disqualification of bets absent in debates

MANILA, Philippines — The National Movement for Free Elections (Namfrel) rejected a proposal to disqualify a candidate for failing to participate in electoral debate.

Namfrel secretary-general Eric Alvia said they support the proposed institutionalization of debates ahead of elections, but disqualification as penalty is excessive.

“We support and endorse the initiative to make mandatory for candidates to attend election debates, at least once,” Alvia said. “(But) if made mandatory, disqualification may be a necessary but harsh penalty.”

Alvia said a pending proposal in Congress to hold mandatory debate would provide voters the opportunity to know the position of candidates on certain issues as well as their solutions to concerns and problems of their constituents.

“Most important, this will elevate the election campaign to focus on issues and solutions as articulated by the candidates themselves, which allows the voters to assess performance and demand accountability once they are elected to a public post,” Alvia explained.

However, Alvia said, the proposed penalty for the election offense may be excessive.

The imposition of hefty fines, Alvia said, may be enough along with the possible repercussions toward the candidates’ public image.

“If a candidate opts not to commit fully or engage totally in a debate, then so be it. But this will send a wrong impression to the voters,” Alvia pointed out.

Siquijor Rep. Ramon Rocamora has filed a bill seeking to require national and local candidates to participate in debates to be organized by the Commission on Elections (Comelec).

Under the proposed House Bill 8549, voters shall be given sufficient information on the plans of the candidates and to assess the quality of leadership that these candidates wish to offer.

A candidate’s absence in a debate, under the proposal, shall be considered as an election offense and a ground for disqualification, except in cases of hospital confinement, temporary detention, or similar grounds, which would prevent his or her attendance.

The Comelec had organized three presidential and one vice presidential debates.