REPLAY: 5 candidates square off in 1st presidential debate in CDO

The first of the three presidential debates for the upcoming 2016 elections in May has been conducted at the Capitol University in Cagayan de Oro City on Sunday.

As expected, the five “presidentiables”—Vice President Jejomar Binay, Davao City Mayor Rodrigo Duterte, Senator Grace Poe, Manuel “Mar” Roxas II and Senator Miriam Defensor-Santiago—traded barbs and parried issues hurled against them.

The said debate had three rounds. First, the candidates were asked about their track record and performance. The second round focused on poverty and development while the third tackled issues on Mindanao.

READ: First presidential debate in 24 years underway

In their closing statements, the candidates revealed why they should be elected president of the country. Binay emphasized his long track record in government service and compassion for the poor while Santiago said that the Philippines needs a leader who has academic, professional and moral excellence.

On his part, Roxas said he can foster a country that is free from poverty while Duterte pitched his platforms on anti-criminality and anti-drug. Meanwhile, Poe said that her lack of experience does not mean that she cannot see the nation’s problems.

The debate is co-presented by GMA 7 and the Philippine Daily Inquirer.

READ: Inquirer, GMA 7 to host first presidential debate

The next presidential debate is set on March 20 in Cebu City. AJH/RAM

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