A vast majority of Filipinos now turn to the internet as their primary source of news and information, highlighting the growing influence of digital platforms on public discourse, according to the results of a recent survey conducted by Pulse Asia Research Inc. for Stratbase Group.
The nationwide survey, carried out from May 3 to 7 among 1,500 respondents, revealed that 83 percent of Filipinos rely on online sources to stay informed about current events and public affairs.
Television remained a major source of information, with 64 percent of respondents saying they regularly obtain news from TV broadcasts. Meanwhile, 31 percent cited family members and relatives as a source of information, while 27 percent said they depend on radio for news updates.
Print media continued to lag behind other platforms, with only 3 percent of respondents identifying newspapers as their main source of news.
The survey results reflect the increasing role of digital media in influencing public opinion and shaping political conversations, particularly as the country begins to look ahead to the 2028 presidential elections.
According to Stratbase Group founder Victor Andres Manhit, the findings suggest that online platforms will likely become even more critical in future election campaigns.
“Candidates and political movements that fail to engage voters in the digital space risk losing relevance, especially among younger and highly connected Filipinos,” Manhit said.
Despite the dominance of online platforms, Manhit emphasized that traditional media and personal networks continue to hold significant influence over the public.
“At the same time, the continued influence of television, family networks, and radio reminds us that campaigns must still communicate across multiple platforms and communities if they hope to build a truly national constituency,” he added.
The survey underscores the evolving media consumption habits of Filipinos and the need for political groups, institutions, and organizations to adopt a multi-platform approach in reaching and engaging the public.