Though he has been debating since 92,
Villar would rather talk to ordinary folks

While he is raring to debate, and has been doing it since 1992 in both chambers of Congress, Senate President Manuel Villar said US-type debates are not effective ways of disseminating a candidates platform.

It is better to personally bring your message to the people because you are addressing their concerns directly and they can talk back to you unlike in a debate which you will be addressing the points of your fellow politician, says Villar.

I would rather have a conversation with the ordinary folks than join an oratorical contest with fellow Senate applicants, adds Villar

In fact , Villar has described his market-factory-school tours as a never-ending conversation with the people. According to him, An election is more of a listening tour than a speaking tour . It should be a two-way street not a one-sided dialogue . And in my encounters with the people they have a mouthful to say.

If he will have his way , Villar would rather spend time with ordinary folks than debate with politicians. If you debate with politicians your aim kasi is to outsmart them. If you talk to people in the market , you let them do the talking and come out of the encounter a better person.

Ang mga tao kasi ang mga employers natin. So dapat makinig tayo para alam natin ang gating job description at mission kung pipiliin nila tayo, he cites.

On the planned debate organized by business groups, Villar said the two opposing political camps should not quibble over venue.

The more important thing is the live coverage . The venue is just the platform. The coverage is important so that people from Batanes to Jolo can listen in, futher sites Villar.