With the midterm elections behind her, an overwhelming majority of Filipinos expect Vice President Sara Duterte to rise above politics, prioritize urgent national concerns, and face the impeachment trial in the Senate with accountability and resolve.
A recent Social Weather Stations (SWS) survey, conducted from May 2 to 6 in partnership with the Stratbase Group, found that 93 percent of respondents believe Duterte must prioritize the country’s needs and do it in collaboration with the Marcos administration.
Meanwhile, 88 percent of respondents believe that she should address the impeachment charges against her and respond fully to all allegations of corruption to clear her name.
“For many, this is not just a legal matter—it is a test of leadership and respect to the rule of law,” SWS said in its report.
Stratbase Group president Prof. Dindo Manhit said the survey clearly shows Filipinos’ demand for public accountability from their political leaders.
“Accountability is not an option. It is foundational to public trust. Prominent leaders like the Vice President should look past politics and personal interests, and respond to the people’s call for transparency. It is about time for her to answer all the allegations filed against her,” Manhit said.
The survey also revealed that 86 percent of respondents want VP Duterte to focus on implementing her own platforms and policies, while 81 percent want her to continue her duties without politicizing them. Moreover, 74 percent prefer that she stop criticizing the government and its initiatives.
“Filipinos want leadership that listens, leads with integrity, and stays focused on what matters most to ordinary citizens,” Manhit noted.
Key national priorities include better access to healthcare (84 percent), food security and agricultural development (81 percent), infrastructure development (80 percent), climate resilience and natural resource protection (70 percent), national security and defense in the West Philippine Sea (76 percent), and inflation management (62 percent).
As the impeachment trial looms, the Filipinos’ expectations for VP Duterte are clear: accountability and unwavering focus on the nation’s pressing challenges.
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