Filipinos are calling on the national government to focus on lowering food prices, generating more jobs, and addressing corruption, a Stratbase Institute–commissioned survey shows—just as the ongoing Middle East crisis sent global fuel prices soaring.
The Feb. 27–March 2 poll, conducted by Pulse Asia and released Thursday, found that 41% of respondents want leaders to address “more affordable food prices in your area such as rice, meat, and fish.” This marks a 3-point increase from December 2025, with Balance Luzon (41% → 46%) and Mindanao (40% → 46%) showing the largest upticks. The shift was most pronounced among Class E respondents (+7 points, 33% → 40%).
Meanwhile, 26% cited the need to “lessen or eliminate corruption to provide better community services,” down 5 points from 31% in the previous survey—coinciding with the winding down of flood control scandal investigations.
Interest in job creation also rose, with 24% calling for “more jobs and livelihood opportunities,” up from 21% in December. The increase was most notable in Visayas, where support jumped 27% → 43%.
Victor Andres “Dindo” Manhit, Stratbase Institute president and CEO, said the results highlight growing concern over food security and inflation, as Filipinos now pay P94–P115 per liter of fuel following recent double-digit price hikes.
“Geopolitical tensions are directly impacting Filipino households,” Manhit said. “While corruption remains an important issue, ordinary citizens are more focused on immediate economic pressures, including food prices and income stability.”
The findings align with a separate Pulse Asia survey showing inflation (47%) and corruption (36%) as the top national concerns.
Manhit urged the government to stabilize food and fuel prices, crack down on profiteering, and expand state subsidies to shield vulnerable sectors from shocks.
“Addressing rising food prices must go hand in hand with creating jobs and ensuring that economic gains reach local communities,” he added.
Other concerns in the Stratbase survey include “providing accessible education and healthcare services” (10%, unchanged from December 2025).
The survey coincided with U.S. and Israeli strikes on Iran, prompting Tehran to close the Strait of Hormuz, through which one-fifth of the world’s oil passes, pushing oil prices above $100 per barrel. The resulting fuel hikes in the Philippines have raised fears of inflation spilling over to essential goods.
The survey polled 1,200 respondents with a ±2.8% margin of error.