House Senior Deputy Majority Leader Lorenz Defensor said the declining survey lead of Vice President Sara Duterte in the 2028 presidential preference polls was not surprising amid ongoing impeachment allegations.
Defensor made the statement following the latest surveys conducted by Pulse Asia and OCTA Research, which showed Duterte’s lead against Leni Robredo narrowing to eight and 11 percentage points.
According to Defensor, Duterte’s declining ratings may have been affected by growing public awareness of the impeachment issue and the lack of response to the allegations being raised against her.
He noted that many Filipinos continue to follow developments through television, radio, online platforms and committee hearings related to the issue.
Defensor also said he would not be surprised if support for the impeachment complaint increases once the matter reaches plenary voting in the House of Representatives. He cited alleged evidence involving misuse of public funds, bribery, corruption and grave threats.
The House leader added that transparency regarding the evidence being presented is important so the public can use it as a basis in deciding whom to support in the 2028 national elections.
At the same time, Defensor admitted that defeating Duterte in the presidential race could still be difficult if three or more candidates run in 2028. He said a one-on-one contest may be more favorable for challengers.
Aside from Robredo, the Pulse Asia survey also showed Duterte tied with Raffy Tulfo in a simulated one-on-one presidential race.
