City Mayor Fair Debate Framework with Questions by Filipino Citizens

This paper introduces a citizen-led debate framework designed for local electoral candidates in the Philippines, with an initial focus on City Mayor aspirants. The City Mayor Fair Debate with Questions by Filipino Citizens aims to provide an open and balanced platform that limits the influence of political machinery and entrenched dynasties. It places emphasis on public accountability, impromptu speaking, and issue-based discussion. The model brings together 100 attendees, equally representing opposing political sides, who submit questions anonymously. Questions are selected at random, with time-limited answers and impartial moderation. If procedural deadlocks occur, simple methods such as a coin toss or “bato bato pick” are used to resolve them, reflecting a light yet fair approach. An additional stage invites candidates to present their preferred rules in public, to finalize the debate format. While developed for mayoral debates, the approach can be adapted to other elective and local positions. It offers a versioned, scalable framework for local governments aiming to restore transparency, fairness, and citizen engagement in democratic processes. Campaign expense: zero pesos.