Vice President Sara Duterte remains the frontrunner for the 2028 presidential elections, but voters are already identifying key “second-choice” candidates should their primary bets withdraw, according to the March 2026 Philippine Public Opinion Monitor.
The survey, conducted by WR Numero, places Duterte at the top with a 36% voter preference. Senator Raffy Tulfo follows with 19%, while former Vice President and current Naga City Mayor Leni Robredo holds 16%. Senator Christopher “Bong” Go trails with 4%.
The poll notably highlights the “backup” choices of various voter bases. Among Duterte’s supporters, Senator Bong Go emerged as the clear alternative.
“Among Duterte supporters, Go emerged as the preferred second-choice candidate with 35% support. Tulfo followed with 30%, while Robredo placed third with 11%.”
Conversely, those backing Leni Robredo view Raffy Tulfo as their most viable alternative, with 33% of her base selecting him as their second choice. Tulfo’s own supporters appear more divided; both Duterte and Robredo tied as their top second-choice candidates at 19% each.
The data also suggests a consolidation of traditional opposition figures among Tulfo’s base, with Senator Francis “Kiko” Pangilinan and Bam Aquino gaining 14% and 10% respectively as alternative options.
Despite these clear leanings, a significant portion of the electorate—including 19% of Duterte’s base and 17% of Tulfo’s—remains undecided on a backup candidate.