The Pulse Asia survey shows nearly half of Filipinos expressing a critical view of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s performance, while Vice President Sara Duterte continues to enjoy majority approval.

Nearly half of Filipinos have expressed a critical view of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s performance, while Vice President Sara Duterte continues to enjoy a small majority of public approval, according to the latest nationwide survey conducted by Pulse Asia. The findings reflect a complex and evolving political mood as the country closes another year under the current administration.

Results of the survey indicate that public opinion toward President Marcos remains divided, with a significant portion of respondents saying they are dissatisfied with his performance during the reference period. The critical assessment comes amid ongoing concerns over inflation, cost of living pressures, and the pace of government response to key socioeconomic issues that directly affect households.

Despite these concerns, the survey also shows that Marcos continues to retain a solid base of support, suggesting that public dissatisfaction has not yet translated into a full erosion of confidence. Political analysts note that fluctuating approval ratings are common at this stage of an administration, particularly during periods marked by economic uncertainty and heightened public expectations.

In contrast, Vice President Sara Duterte maintained a slight majority approval rating, reflecting sustained public trust in her leadership. Respondents cited her perceived decisiveness and visibility in addressing education and social issues as factors contributing to her favorable standing. Duterte currently heads the Department of Education, one of the largest and most scrutinized agencies in government.

Pulse Asia data suggest that Duterte’s approval levels have remained relatively stable compared to previous surveys, even as broader political debates intensify. Observers say this consistency may indicate that many Filipinos continue to separate their evaluation of individual officials rather than viewing the administration as a single political bloc.

The survey also highlighted differences in opinion across regions and socioeconomic classes. Urban respondents and those from lower-income groups were more likely to express dissatisfaction with the president’s performance, often citing rising prices of basic goods and transportation costs. Meanwhile, approval for the vice president remained comparatively steady across geographic areas.

Political analysts caution against reading the results as a definitive verdict on the administration, emphasizing that public opinion remains fluid. External factors such as global economic trends, fuel prices, and regional developments can significantly influence perceptions of leadership performance in a short period of time.

Pulse Asia noted that trust and approval ratings are shaped not only by policy outcomes but also by communication and public engagement. Analysts say clearer messaging and more visible government action on economic relief could play a key role in shifting public sentiment in the coming months.

The findings come as the administration prepares to outline its priorities for the year ahead, including measures aimed at stabilizing prices, improving public services, and strengthening social protection programs. For both Marcos and Duterte, the survey serves as an indicator of areas where public confidence is strong and where greater effort may be needed.

As Filipinos continue to assess their leaders amid ongoing challenges, the Pulse Asia survey underscores the nuanced nature of public opinion. While criticism toward the president reflects unmet expectations among a sizable portion of the population, the vice president’s steady approval suggests that trust in leadership remains present, though unevenly distributed.