Debates  

As the election season advances, debates have become more prevalent. Media outlets occasionally invite candidates to a forum to enlighten the voting public about their ideas, projects, and stances on a variety of national issues and concerns. Yes, we have the opportunity to learn more about the depth and, in some ways, seriousness of certain candidates. Is this, however, the true barometer for our votes? Is it possible to rely solely on this one-hour show of rhetoric? Is this a way for the candidates to promote specific qualities, and promises?

Many of us have been hooked for over an hour listening to various perspectives, rebuttals, and counter-rebuttals of national candidates over key matters of national interest as a result of debates sponsored by various media channels. And we can't help but express our displeasure with certain positions taken by candidates we don't support, while also expecting to hear what we already know about the positions taken by our supported candidates.

Aside from learning about our candidates' stance on specific issues, debates also allow us to see how they would articulate the Filipino people's thoughts and aspirations if they were to represent the country in the international arena. When our president travels to other nations, he or she should be able to bring our goals.

We have the ability to do our own fact-checking during the debate. We examine the candidates' assertions in light of existing facts and numbers. We have the opportunity to identify people who make good use of numbers. This is done without being overly aware of the genuine and real figures. This may appear plausible to ordinary folks, but a closer examination of the real data and facts reveals that such claims by certain candidates are just intended to reinforce their prejudiced beliefs.

Economic progress requires well-functioning democratic frameworks and effective political governance. However, in younger democracies a lack of electoral information might erode elected leaders' accountability and, as a result, decision making. Providing voters with access to information through debates between competing candidates can improve their knowledge and raise political involvement dramatically.

Because of their fragile democratic frameworks and low media penetration, political information can be difficult to obtain in developing nations. Citizens may cast ballots for candidates with little awareness of their policy positions, qualifications, past performance, or projected responsibilities. Despite the fact that election debates potentially inform voter deliberation, there is a knowledge gap about the impact of debates on voter decisions.

When all of us participate in our democracy, it thrives. Attending or watching a candidate debate is an effective technique for us to empower ourselves and fulfill our civic responsibilities for our democracy, while also serving as a role model for our family and community. When we watch a debate and discuss it with our coworkers, classmates, friends, and family, we are helping to encourage critical discourse about issues that touch our lives.

Candidates should take use of the opportunity to be seen and heard on nationally-broadcast debates in order to educate a significant portion of the electorate, especially in a national election with so many restrictions during a pandemic. After all, great leaders are usually often exceptional simplifiers, capable of cutting through debate, doubt, and disagreement to deliver a solution that everyone can understand.