Political Winds Shift: Marcos and Duterte See Approval Ratings Dip in Q2 2026 Survey

Manila, Philippines – The political landscape in the Philippines is showing signs of change as President Ferdinand "Bongbong" Marcos Jr. and Vice President Sara Duterte both experienced a decline in their approval ratings during the second quarter of 2026, according to a new survey released Monday.

The survey, conducted by a leading independent pollster, marks a notable shift in public sentiment toward the country’s top two leaders, who have long enjoyed strong support since taking office in 2022. While the exact figures were not immediately disclosed in full, multiple news outlets including the Cebu Daily News and Inquirer.net reported a downward trend for both figures.

Key Findings at a Glance

• President Marcos Jr. saw his approval rating slip by several percentage points compared to the first quarter of 2026.
• Vice President Duterte also experienced a decline, though her numbers remain relatively higher than her running mate’s.
• The survey was conducted across urban and rural areas, capturing a broad cross-section of Filipino voters.
• Economic concerns and governance issues were cited as primary drivers of the ratings drop.

What’s Behind the Decline?

Political analysts point to several factors that may have contributed to the waning popularity of the Marcos-Duterte tandem.

1. Economic Pressures: Despite government efforts to stabilize prices, inflation continues to bite into household budgets. Rice, fuel, and electricity costs remain stubbornly high, eroding public confidence in the administration’s economic management.

2. Policy Fatigue: The administration’s ambitious infrastructure program, "Build Better More," has faced delays and cost overruns, leading to frustration among voters who expected faster results.

3. Political Noise: Ongoing debates over constitutional reform and the proposed shift to a federal system have created uncertainty, with some voters viewing these moves as distractions from more pressing issues like job creation and healthcare.

4. Regional Disparities: While the National Capital Region (NCR) remains a stronghold for both leaders, support has softened in key provinces, particularly in the Visayas and Mindanao, where local issues are taking center stage.

Context and Background

The Marcos-Duterte alliance has been a dominant force in Philippine politics since the 2022 elections, combining the political machinery of the Marcos family with the Duterte legacy. However, governing coalitions often face mid-term challenges as public expectations collide with the realities of policymaking.

Historically, second-quarter surveys in the Philippines have been volatile, reflecting seasonal economic pressures and the ebb and flow of political campaigns. The current dip, while notable, does not necessarily signal a terminal decline for either leader.

Analysis: What This Means for 2027 and Beyond

The declining ratings come at a critical juncture. With the 2027 midterm elections on the horizon, both Marcos and Duterte will need to shore up support to maintain their legislative agenda.

• For President Marcos: The slip suggests that his administration must deliver tangible economic relief to regain trust. His recent focus on food security and digital transformation could help, but results need to be visible soon.
• For Vice President Duterte: As a potential presidential candidate in 2028, her numbers are being closely watched. A sustained decline could embolden rivals within her own political camp.

“This is a wake-up call for the administration,” said Dr. Maria Reyes, a political science professor at the University of the Philippines. “Voters are patient, but they are not infinitely so. The next six months will be crucial in determining whether this is a temporary blip or the beginning of a longer trend.”

Looking Ahead

Both leaders have yet to issue formal statements on the survey results. However, sources within Malacañang indicate that the administration is already recalibrating its messaging, with a renewed emphasis on poverty alleviation and infrastructure completion.

For now, the political winds are shifting—but whether they will turn into a storm or simply a passing breeze remains to be seen. What is certain is that Filipino voters are watching closely, and their patience, like their approval, is not guaranteed.

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This article is based on reporting from the Cebu Daily News and Inquirer.net, with additional analysis from political observers.