A new Social Weather Stations (SWS) survey commissioned by the Stratbase Group confirmed that job creation and food security remain the top concerns for Filipino voters as they prepare to cast their votes during the midterm elections set on May 12.
Conducted from April 11 to 14 with 1,800 respondents, the survey reveals that 93 percent of Filipinos are inclined to vote for candidates who champion employment opportunities and agricultural development to ensure food availability. The survey has a plus or minus 2-percentage-point margin of error.
These two issues have consistently ranked highest in voter priorities over the past four months, reflecting persistent economic anxieties amid high inflation.
Stratbase President Dindo Manhit emphasized that basic economic stability is central to the electorate’s concerns, especially as families grapple with surging food and transportation costs.
“The Filipino people are asking for the basics: jobs that can support their families and access to affordable food. These are not luxuries, but dignified essentials,” Manhit said.
Beyond jobs and food, 91 percent of respondents support strengthening the healthcare system, followed by advocacies such as protecting workers’ rights and OFW welfare (88 percent), alleviating poverty and hunger (87 percent), and controlling the cost of goods and services (85 percent).
As election day nears, Manhit urged voters to critically assess candidates’ platforms and track records. “Empty promises won’t suffice. Filipinos need leaders who deliver,” he stated.
He also underscored the role of governance post-election, calling for immediate action, political unity, and a rule-based environment that fosters investor confidence. “Only by restoring faith in institutions and reducing political instability can we attract investments and generate real jobs,” he concluded.
The survey affirms that while political rhetoric may shift, Filipinos remain firmly grounded in their demand for economic dignity and sustained, inclusive growth.
