Vice President Sara Duterte remains the leading choice for president in a potential 2028 race, although her support has slightly declined, according to a new survey.
The first-quarter Tugon ng Masa (TNM) survey conducted by OCTA Research showed that 33 percent of Filipinos would vote for Duterte if the elections were held today. Former Vice President and current Naga City Mayor Leni Robredo followed with 21 percent.
The nationwide survey was conducted from March 19 to 25 among 1,200 adult respondents, with a margin of error of ±3 percent.
Despite maintaining the lead, Duterte’s rating dropped from 38 percent in the previous quarter, reflecting a five-point decline. Robredo, meanwhile, recorded a significant increase from 8 percent to 21 percent.
Other preferred presidential candidates include Manila Mayor Francisco “Isko Moreno” Domagoso at 10 percent, Senator Raffy Tulfo at nine percent, and Senator Bam Aquino at four percent. About two percent of respondents were undecided, while one percent declined to answer.
OCTA Research said the results indicate shifting voter preferences, particularly among leading contenders. It noted that Duterte’s decline remains within the survey’s margin of error and should not yet be seen as a definitive downward trend.
In contrast, Robredo’s 13-point increase was described as statistically significant, suggesting a clear shift in public preference during the survey period.
Duterte has previously signaled her intention to run for president in 2028, while Robredo said she is focusing on her role as mayor of Naga City and is not pursuing a national position at this time.