Rep. Zarate urges Comelec to penalize candidates skipping debates

Bayan Muna party-list Representative Carlos Zarate has urged the Commission on Elections (Comelec) to immediately penalize presidential and vice presidential candidates who refuse to participate in organized debates.

Zarate stated that the Comelec, as a constitutionally mandated body, possesses the authority to impose penalties on candidates defying its processes.

He also mentioned that Bayan Muna is considering proposing legislation that would explicitly prohibit, penalize, or even disqualify candidates who skip mandated Comelec debates.

The potential bill might also include disqualification grounds for candidates convicted of tax evasion or those who fail to file their income tax returns (ITR) and statement of assets, liabilities, and net worth (SALN).

This challenge comes after presidential aspirant Ferdinand "Bongbong" Marcos Jr. and his running mate, Davao City Mayor Sara Duterte, opted out of the Comelec-sponsored debates, citing a preference for campaigning.