GMA Network Inc. yesterday started sending out invitations to local media organizations to the first of three presidential debates, dubbed “PiliPinas Debates 2016,” scheduled in the city this Sunday.
Jojo Aquio, one of GMA Network’s senior communications managers, said a total of 25 seats have been reserved for “local media observers” who would be part of the live debate audience at the Mini-Theater of the Capitol University.
The media “observers” however would be asked to refrain from bringing any type of coverage equipment.
Aquio explained that this rule was made to ensure that the conduct of the debate would not be disrupted by a free-for-all press coverage at the debate venue proper, with photographers, video and technical crews jockeying for position.
But the “observers” would be free to “tweet” about the debate as it unfolds, he said.
Aquio said that aside from the observer slots at the debate hall venue, local news media organizations would also be allowed to send their reporters and photographers to cover the event, and would be given access to a “media center” located right across the venue of the debate provided that they have been given accreditation by the Commission on Elections (Comelec).
He said the media center will have a simultaneous feed of the debate so journalists may watch the proceedings live.
Aquio said radio stations that need a simultaneous feed of the debate may also get their feed at the media center which has a capacity of 300 people with about 100 electrical outlets ready for use.
GMA Network said it is organizing the debate in partnership with the Comelec and the Philippine Daily Inquirer.
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