The Philippine political landscape is witnessing a historic potential showdown as two women who served as the nation’s second-highest official lead the early preference polls for the 2028 presidential elections.
According to a survey conducted by OCTA Research from March 19 to 25, current Vice President Sara Duterte remains the top choice for the presidency, garnering 33% of the votes from 1,200 respondents. However, this figure reflects a 5% decline from her previous rating of 38%.
Significant Surge for Robredo
Despite repeatedly stating she has no plans to seek the presidency again, former Vice President and current Naga City Mayor Leni Robredo secured the second spot with 21%. This marks a substantial 12% increase in her survey performance.
Both Robredo and third-placer Manila City Mayor Isko Moreno Domagoso, who received 10%, previously ran for the presidency in 2022 but lost to President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.
Other Notable Contenders
The survey also highlighted other potential candidates, though their numbers remain in the single digits:
- Senator Raffy Tulfo: 9%
- Senator Bam Aquino: 4%
Vice President Duterte announced her intent to run for the presidency in 2028 last February. This announcement comes amid challenges, including potential impeachment hearings concerning the alleged misuse of confidential funds during her tenure as Vice President and Secretary of the Department of Education (DepEd).
In contrast, Robredo, Domagoso, Tulfo, and Aquino have all maintained that they currently have no plans to run for higher office in the upcoming 2028 elections. The survey carries a margin of error of ±3%.