A Nation’s Discontent: What the Latest Pulse Asia Survey Reveals About the Future of Philippine Leadership

By Louis ‘Barok‘ C. Biraogo — December 22, 2024

A RISING tide of discontent is washing over the Philippines’ top leaders. A recent Pulse Asia survey reveals a sharp decline in approval for President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., Vice President Sara Duterte, and other key officials, laying bare a nation frustrated by inflation, poverty, and corruption. This erosion of trust isn’t just about numbers—it could reshape the political landscape ahead of the midterms and beyond.

The Survey’s Message: Political Implications for the Marcos and Duterte Camps

The Midterm Elections: A Chance for Voters to Speak Out

The midterm elections, scheduled for May 2025, could become a pivotal referendum on the Marcos administration. With discontent over inflation at a staggering 82% disapproval, allied candidates face daunting prospects. The ruling coalition may struggle to retain its influence in the legislature, risking a weakened mandate that could stymie governance. If opposition parties effectively channel public frustration, they might gain significant ground, fundamentally altering the political balance.

Sara Duterte’s Presidential Ambitions: A Look at the Challenges Ahead

Sara Duterte’s plunge in approval (from 60% to 50%) and trust (from 61% to 49%) ratings paints a grim picture for her potential presidential bid in 2028. Particularly damaging is the erosion of her support in the Visayas and among Class D voters, historically crucial constituencies. Allegations of misuse of funds and incendiary statements about assassination plots deepen her challenges, suggesting she will need a dramatic reinvention to revive her prospects.

Congressional Leaders in the Spotlight: A Test of Their Leadership

For Senate President Escudero and Speaker Romualdez, the survey results threaten their credibility. While Escudero retains a slim majority approval (53%), the growing indecision and his slipping trust rating may imperil his standing as a stabilizing force in the Senate. Romualdez, with a mere 25% approval, faces a more precarious scenario, as growing distrust undermines his authority and future ambitions.

Winning Back Public Trust: Strategies for Improving Survey Results

President Marcos: Economic Priorities

Marcos must prioritize bold measures to curb inflation and stabilize the economy. Policies such as targeted subsidies, strategic imports to address food shortages, and currency stabilization efforts are critical. Moreover, a transparent, empathetic communication campaign addressing public concerns could mitigate dissatisfaction.

Sara Duterte: Repair and Realign

Duterte must swiftly address allegations of impropriety and recalibrate her public image. Expanding her focus to education reforms and youth programs—key areas of public concern—might regain lost trust. Strategic alliances beyond her traditional base could further fortify her position.

Escudero and Romualdez: Rebuilding Trust and Credibility

Escudero should leverage his comparative majority approval to lead legislative reforms addressing unemployment and corruption. Romualdez, in contrast, must confront his lack of trust head-on through community engagement and delivering tangible legislative achievements.

The Survey’s Warning: Long-Term Implications for the Government

National Goals: Stagnation or Progress?

The survey exposes a critical trust deficit in the government’s ability to address systemic issues. Persistent dissatisfaction with poverty reduction (50% disapproval) and corruption (45% disapproval) risks derailing progress on economic development and social equity. Without a concerted effort to rebuild public trust, long-term goals like poverty alleviation and infrastructure modernization may falter.

Global Image: Eroding Confidence

Internationally, these trends could weaken the Philippines’ standing. Concerns over governance and corruption might deter foreign investments, even as the administration promotes reforms like the CREATE MORE Act. Sustaining confidence among global partners requires addressing domestic woes head-on.

The Survey in Perspective: Historical Context and Future Trajectory

This is not the first time disillusionment has rocked the Philippine political system. The current dynamics echo the dissatisfaction preceding the 2001 ouster of President Joseph Estrada. However, the convergence of economic pressures and eroding trust now unfolds in a globalized, interconnected era, amplifying stakes.

The road to 2025 may be fraught with challenges, but it also offers an unprecedented opportunity. Leaders have the chance to inspire unity and restore faith, while citizens can reclaim their role as the backbone of democracy. Together, they can chart a course toward a brighter, more equitable future—one that transcends the weight of discontent and proves that resilience is the heart of the Filipino spirit.