MANILA, Philippines — Vice President Sara Duterte continues to enjoy higher public ratings than President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., while Sen. Robin Padilla leads early preferences for the 12 Senate seats at stake in 2028, according to a new nationwide survey.
The Sept. 21–30 Pulso ng Pilipino tracking poll, conducted by the Issues and Advocacy Center (The CENTER), also found dissatisfaction with the House of Representatives, declining confidence in Duterte’s impeachment proceedings, and strong approval of Sen. Francis “Chiz” Escudero’s performance as presiding officer of the Senate Impeachment Court.
The non-commissioned survey covered 1,800 respondents nationwide and had a margin of error of plus or minus three percentage points.
Duterte recorded a net satisfaction rating of +36, with 65% satisfied with her performance and 29% dissatisfied. Her net trust rating was +38, with 64% expressing trust and 26% distrust.
Marcos posted a net satisfaction rating of +5, with 43% satisfied and 38% dissatisfied. His net trust rating was +7, with 48% expressing trust and 41% distrust.
Senate President Sherwin Gatchalian recorded a net satisfaction rating of +7 and a net trust rating of +15.
House Speaker Faustino “Bogie” Dy III had the lowest satisfaction rating, at -13. Some 52% of respondents were dissatisfied with his performance, while 39% were satisfied.
The survey attributed the House’s poor standing to public demands for greater transparency and accountability in government spending, particularly amid controversy over flood-control projects. It also cited concerns about the lack of formal charges against those allegedly involved in the multibillion-peso controversy, despite extensive public hearings.
Padilla led the early senatorial preference survey with 62.5%. Tulfo and Sotto tied for second at 54%.
Davao City Mayor Sebastian “Baste” Duterte placed fourth with 49.75%, followed by Sen. Alan Peter Cayetano at 47.25%, broadcaster Ben Tulfo at 46.5%, and former senator Manny Pacquiao at 46%.
Escudero received 43%, followed by Sen. JV Ejercito at 41% and Sen. Mark Villar at 40%.
Sen. Loren Legarda, at 38.5%, led the next group, with Navotas lawmaker Tiangco close behind at 38%, putting him in contention for a Senate seat.
Tiangco drew attention for his advocacy on flood control, transparency and accountability in public-works spending. The poll cited his record in Navotas, which has been promoted as an example of local flood-mitigation efforts.
Others near the projected Magic 12 cutoff included Sen. Jinggoy Estrada at 37.5%, former senator Grace Poe at 37.25%, and Education Secretary Sonny Angara at 37%.
