Either the pressure of speaking within an influential Catholic university was too much, or these politikos just have a problem with being consistent.

Three vice presidential candidates–Senators Chiz Escudero, Bongbong Marcos and Camarines Sur Rep. Leni Robredo–apparently changed their stance on same-sex marriage during their debate, which was held at the University of Santo Tomas (UST).

The trio gave a “thumbs down” to same-sex marriage during the “yes or no” portion of the debate wherein they were asked their position on various key issues.

Among the three, Robredo attempted to qualify her answer but was prevented by the debate moderators since the questions were only answerable by yes or no.

Research by CNN Philippines, one of the media partners of the event, later showed that Escudero, Marcos and Robredo previously said that they were in favor of same-sex marriage.

The Philippines is predominantly Catholic, the church teachings of which prohibit man-to-man and woman-to-woman marriages.

However, members of the lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) community have gained more powerful and influential positions in society throughout the years. (Samantha A. Giron)

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