In 2023, the Philippines stood at a crossroads, its path forward shaped by the leadership and governance of its top officials and legislative bodies.
During this crucial year, the “Boses ng Bayan” Year 2023 survey, meticulously conducted by the RP-Mission and Development Foundation Inc. (RPMD), offered an extensive assessment of these vital figures: President Marcos, Vice President Sara Duterte, Senate President Juan Miguel Zubiri, House Speaker Ferdinand Martin Romualdez, and the legislative bodies of the Senate of the Philippines and the House of Representatives.
This independent and non-commissioned study delves into the public’s perception of their collective and individual performances, scrutinizing their effectiveness in managing national affairs, executing policy decisions, and upholding their responsibilities. By incorporating both the executive and legislative branches, the survey presents a comprehensive view of the highest tiers of government throughout 2023.
The RPMD survey, under the guidance of Dr. Paul Martinez, Global Affairs Analyst and Executive Director of RPMD, illuminates the nuanced regional responses to the leadership of President Marcos garnered an overall score of 80%, with regional responses painting a tapestry of varied perceptions.
In the Balance of Luzon, he achieved a remarkable 84.70%, while the Visayas accorded him a score of 79.02%. Mindanao’s rating stood at 75.98%, with the National Capital Region offering a more critical view at 71.72%. Additionally, President Marcos enjoyed a robust trust rating of 83%, reflecting solid confidence in his leadership across the nation.
Vice President Duterte’s performance for the same year was quantified at 78%. She resonated most strongly in Mindanao, with an 82.86% approval rating. The Balance of Luzon and the Visayas followed closely, with scores of 78% and 76.77%, respectively. The National Capital Region presented the lowest score at 70.42%. These ratings, coupled with a trust score of 80%, underscore the diverse regional assessments of her performance.
The year also saw Senate President Zubiri achieve 75% job approval, underlined by a trust rating of 78%. His leadership contributed to the Filipino public’s satisfaction with the Senate of the Philippines, reflected in a 78% satisfaction score and an elevated trust rating of 80%.
House Speaker Romualdez received a satisfaction score of 77% for 2023, accompanied by a trust rating of 79%. The House of Representatives, under his stewardship, was rated at a satisfaction level of 73% and a trust rating of 75%.
The survey, conducted from December 27, 2023, to January 5, 2024, engaged 10,000 adult Filipinos across cities and regions, reflecting a demographic proportional to the official voter population. With a margin of error of +/-1% and a 95% confidence level, it paints an accurate picture of national sentiment.
Furthermore, the survey revealed pivotal concerns among Filipinos. Poverty alleviation was a top priority for 28% of respondents, followed closely by the need for economic stability (23%), and social welfare improvements (18%). Job creation was also a significant concern, as emphasized by 15% of participants.
Dr. Martinez notes that this survey not only assesses the current administration but also provides a roadmap for addressing critical issues. The direct survey parameter, focusing on the spectrum of satisfaction to dissatisfaction, effectively captures the public pulse on the administration’s efficacy.
“Boses ng Bayan” emerges as more than just a survey; it’s a reflection of the Filipino voice, offering crucial insights and paving the way for responsive governance attuned to the people’s needs and aspirations.