Bongbong declines Comelec panel interview

Presidential candidate Ferdinand "Bongbong" Marcos Jr. has declined to attend the Commission on Elections’ presidential panel interview set on May 1, his spokesperson Atty. Victor Rodriguez said Thursday.

In a statement, Rodriguez said the former senator decided to continue his scheduled election campaign activities with less than two weeks before the May 9 polls.

"Marcos Jr. extends his appreciation to the poll body for its gracious invitation, as he acknowledges the importance of joining in such an important event," Rodriguez said.

"He opted, however, to conclude the entire 90-day campaign period with visits to his supporters and compliances with previous commitments for political events, like town hall meetings and political rallies," he added.

Due to financial issues between Comelec’s debate contractor Impact Hub Manila and the supposed debates venue Sofitel Garden Plaza, the poll body has decided to shift to taped interviews slated to be aired from May 2 to 6. It has partnered with the Kapisanan ng mga Brodkaster ng Pilipinas for it.

Marcos also did not join the first two Comelec debates held on March 19 and April 3. His running-mate, Davao City Mayor Sara Duterte, also refused to join the Comelec’s vice presidential debate on March 20. —Giselle Ombay/KBK, GMA News