The camp of presidential frontrunner Ferdinand 'Bongbong' Marcos Jr. on Thursday clarified that the former senator has yet to confirm his attendance in the debate sponsored by the Commission on Elections (Comelec) on March 19.
Earlier, the poll body announced that all 10 presidential aspirants have agreed to join the debate, including Marcos who has snubbed a number of forums and debates.
"Partido Federal ng Pilipinas standard-bearer Ferdinand ‘Bongbong’ Marcos, Jr. has not yet confirmed his participation in the Comelec-sponsored debate which was scheduled from 7pm to 9:30pm. on March 19, 2022." said Atty. Vic Rodriguez, his spokesman, in a statement.
"His participation in the said event, which will be held at the Philippine Arena in Bocaue, Bulacan will only be confirmed if his hectic campaign schedules permit," he added.
However, this contradicts the letter sent by the Marcos camp dated February 11 to the poll body which Marcos' "readiness to participate” in the debate.
Comelec spokesman James Jimenez showed the letter in a Twitter post.
"The COMELEC has been advised of presidential candidate Marcos’ “readiness to participate” in the #PiliPinasDebates2022," he wrote.
The COMELEC has been advised of presidential candidate Marcos’ “readiness to participate” in the #PiliPinasDebates2022. If more confirmation is needed, the COMELEC awaits the same with bated breath. Nevertheless, preparations for the #PiliPinasDebates2022 push thru. pic.twitter.com/YDHPI4gqay
— James Jimenez (@jabjimenez) February 24, 2022
The letter was written by Marcos' national campaign manager and former MMDA head Benhur Abalos.
