Comelec to modify presidential debate format

The Commission on Elections (Comelec) will modify the format of the second presidential debate scheduled for Sunday, April 3.

The debate will feature one general question for all nine candidates at the start.

In four succeeding segments, candidates will be divided into groups of three per segment, with each group debating one question.

The groupings will be randomly predetermined via draw lots two hours before the debate and will change throughout the show.

Each candidate will have two minutes to answer a question, and another 30 seconds for rebuttal.

All candidates will be given 60 seconds each to deliver their closing statements.

Comelec spokesman James Jimenez stated that this format change is an opportunity to "sharpen the debate" and allow candidates to answer more deeply and effectively.

All but one of the 10 presidential bets have confirmed their attendance.

Sunday's debate will focus on government accountability and domestic policies.