Comelec reiterates debate rules on notes

Pia Gutierrez, ABS-CBN News

MANILA - The Commission on Elections (Comelec) on Tuesday reiterated its rules regarding notes for the PiliPinas Debates 2016.

The poll body stated that candidates are allowed to take notes using only the pads provided by the Comelec. The use of audio or visual aids is not allowed.

The reminders came after Sunday's presidential debate in Cebu was delayed for an hour and a half due to miscommunication between Vice President Jejomar Binay and TV5 managers on bringing of documents on stage.

READ: Row over rules: Why 2nd presidential debate was delayed

READ: Binay is no walkout diva: UNA

The Comelec added that candidates are also encouraged to shake hands at the end of the debate.

Binay was seen quickly walking away after Sunday's debate and was seen to have ignored the handshake offered by fellow presidential candidate Mar Roxas.

WATCH: How 2nd presidential debate ended

However, Binay told reporters the day after the debate that 

he eventually returned on stage and had photos taken with some guests and members of the audience. 

Meanwhile, the poll body also reminded journalists of the rules in covering the debates.

"Interviews before and after the debate will be allowed only in the designated areas of the debate venue. No ambush interviews will be allowed. Journalists covering the live debate will be subject to accreditation," it said.