As the Senate delays the impeachment trial to June 11, a new survey reveals that 88% of Filipinos want Vice President Sara Duterte to face the accusations filed against her and answer all corruption allegations.
The nationwide survey, conducted by Social Weather Stations (SWS) in partnership with the Stratbase Group from May 2 to 6 among 1,800 registered voters, highlights an overwhelming public demand for accountability among elected leaders.
For many Filipinos, the impeachment case against Duterte is not merely a legal process but a fundamental test of leadership and adherence to the rule of law.
“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,” said Stratbase Group President Prof. Dindo Manhit in a news release.
“It is about time for her to answer all the allegations filed against her,” he added.
The survey further found that 93% of respondents believe the Vice President must prioritize the country’s needs, while 86% want her to focus on delivering her own platforms and policies.
Meanwhile, 81% urge Duterte to end political bickering, and 74% prefer she refrain from criticizing the administration and instead focus on governance.
Duterte had previously said that there would be a “bloodbath” during the impeachment trial.
“Filipinos want leadership that listens, leads with integrity, and stays focused on what matters most to ordinary citizens,” Manhit said.
Beyond the Vice President’s situation, the survey reflects broader public expectations.
Top priorities for Filipinos include better access to healthcare (84%), improved food security and agricultural development (81%), infrastructure development (80%), climate resilience and environmental protection (70%), national security in the West Philippine Sea (67%), and management of inflation (62%).
“These are not new calls, but what is different now is the louder clamor from the public for better governance,” Manhit said. “People are demanding honest and effective leadership. Progress in sectors like healthcare and infrastructure is not possible without good governance.”
The findings signal a rising vigilance among citizens, with respondents looking to President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s administration and Congress to act decisively on pressing social and economic issues.
“There is an expectation that national policies will deliver on promises. But delivery must be anchored on governance that is principled and accountable,” Manhit said.
“As Filipinos look ahead, they are not just calling for programs, they want and deserve leadership that puts the country first and commits to transparency,” he added.
The Senate is expected to resume the impeachment proceedings against Duterte on June 11, amid growing public pressure to act on the accusations without further delay.
