PRESIDENTIAL aspirants Senators Manny Pacquiao and Panfilo ‘Ping’ Lacson and Vice President Leni Robredo will skip the debate to be hosted by the Sonshine Media Network International on Tuesday, February 15, 2022.

SMNI is the broadcasting arm of Pastor Apollo Quiboloy.

Pacquiao said that he cannot take part in an activity headed by a “criminal.”

“I cannot, in good conscience, be part of any activity organized by a man wanted for detestable crimes and who unconscionably used the name of the Lord in vain for religious scams,” he said on Monday.

Lacson, on the other hand, said that his non-attendance is due to Quiboloy’s open endorsement of Marcos’ candidacy.

“With all due respect and giving regard to common sense, Senate President Tito Sotto and I are skipping SMNI debates. The network’s chairman, Pastor Quiboloy has already openly endorsed his preferred presidential and vice presidential candidates,” he said.

Robredo said she has a scheduled meeting with locals in Panay but will be in attendance on sponsored debates by the Commission on Elections.

Former Senator Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. said that he will attend the debate.