Pacquiao ‘excited to join’ presidential debates

Senator Manny Pacquiao. Contributed photo

MANILA, Philippines — Senator Manny Pacquiao said Thursday he is “excited to join” any presidential debate leading to the May 9 national elections this year.

Pacquiao said the debates will be a good avenue for the candidates to lay down their platform and programs for the country.

“I’m ready and excited to join any presidential debate,” the presidential aspirant said in a statement.

“Itong mga debate ng mga gustong mamuno sa ating bansa ay isang magandang paraan upang aming mailahad ang aming saloobin, layunin at programa para sa bayan at para sa ating mga mamamayan,” he added.

(The debate is a good way to lay down our opinions, goals, and programs for the country and our countrymen.)

Moreover, Pacquiao said the debates will also be a good venue for candidates to talk about their experiences prior to entering politics and eventually seeking the top government position in the country.

“Ito na po ang panahon at pagkakataon para manalo ang mahihirap (This is the time and opportunity for the poor to win),” the world boxing champion-turned-politician said.

Commission on Elections (Comelec) spokesperson James Jimenez previously said the poll body will hold a hybrid primary debate for national candidates this January. The hybrid debate, he explained, will be conducted with candidates attending in person while the audience would be watching online in light of the COVID-19 pandemic.

There will be three presidential debates and three vice-presidential debates, according to Comelec.

KGA