In a move to enhance the democratic process, the Commission on Elections (Comelec) in Manila has released a comprehensive set of guidelines under Resolution No. 11115, aimed at ensuring fairness and neutrality in election debates broadcasted on television and radio. These guidelines are designed to foster an environment where the electorate can make informed decisions based on the substantive discussions during these debates.
Comelec emphasized the critical role of organized political debates in nurturing a well-informed public. ‘Organized political debates are essential tools in promoting a fully-informed electorate, serving the public interest by facilitating meaningful political discourse,’ stated Comelec in a recent announcement. The commission is committed to upholding the highest standards of fairness, neutrality, and impartiality in these events.
Under the new rules, debate organizers are required to extend invitations to all candidates, ensuring that each participant is given equal opportunity to represent themselves. This includes equal treatment in terms of speaking time, seating arrangements, and the provision of necessary facilities. Additionally, the guidelines mandate that supporters and family members of candidates be accommodated in equal numbers to prevent any perception of bias.
The physical setup of the debate venue and the attire of moderators must be free from any political symbols or colors that could suggest favoritism. The debates, forums, or interview series must be conducted in a safe and controlled environment, reflecting professionalism and adherence to decorum. Topics and questions posed during the debates are expected to be significant and relevant, avoiding trivial matters that do not contribute to the public’s understanding of the candidates’ platforms.
An important aspect of the guidelines is that the participation of candidates in these media events will not count against their allocated airtime, as regulated by election laws. This provision is intended to encourage more candidates to engage in debates without worrying about airtime limitations.
Organizers are also obligated to notify the relevant Comelec office in writing at least one week prior to the event. This notification helps Comelec to monitor the proceedings and ensure compliance with the set standards. If invited, Comelec’s role will be limited to that of an observer or guest, with no financial or legal responsibility for any incidents that might occur during the event. The costs associated with organizing the debate, forum, or interview series must be borne by the organizers themselves, ensuring that Comelec’s resources are not diverted from other essential electoral duties.
These guidelines represent a significant step forward in promoting transparency and equity in the electoral process, ensuring that all candidates have a fair platform to communicate their visions and policies to the electorate.