Manila: Nine candidates from the administration slate Alyansa Para sa Bagong Pilipinas remain in the projected winning circle less than a month before the May 2025 elections, according to the latest Social Weather Stations (SWS) survey results. The survey, conducted from April 11 to 15 and commissioned by the Stratbase Group, showed that ACT-CIS Party-list Rep. Erwin Tulfo led the administration-backed coalition with 43 percent voting preference, placing second overall.
According to Philippines News Agency, Senator Lito Lapid followed with 34 percent, ranking 3rd, while former Senate President Vicente Sotto III and Senator Pia Cayetano tied in 4th to 5th place, both at 33 percent. Senator Ramon Revilla Jr. landed in 7th to 8th place with 31 percent. Makati Mayor Abby Binay moved up to 9th place with 29 percent, improving from her previous 11th to 13th range. Las Pi±as Rep. Camille Villar climbed to 10th with 28 percent, also rising from the lower tier in March. Former Senator Panfilo Lacson slipped to 11th place with 26 percent, while former Senator Manny Pacquiao rounded out the top 12 with 25 percent.
Stratbase President Dindo Manhit said the administration-backed senatorial candidates continue to dominate pre-election surveys due to a combination of strategic advantages, such as leveraging name recognition and access to campaign networks. 'Their incumbency and strong name recall -- often built over the years in public office or media exposure -- keep them top-of-mind for voters. Access to government machinery and well-organized local networks amplifies their visibility and reach, especially in the provinces, while media leverage, particularly among candidates with broadcasting backgrounds, ensures sustained exposure across platforms,' Manhit said.
'Furthermore, their messaging often resonates with the public by focusing on continuity, helping Filipinos, and other populist themes -- narratives that appeal to many voters seeking familiarity and perceived stability as election day approaches,' he added.
Among the non-administration candidates, Senator Bong Go topped the overall survey with 45 percent, up three points from March. Senator Ronald dela Rosa ranked 6th with 32 percent. Broadcaster Ben Tulfo, who was previously in the 3rd to 4th range, dropped three points to 31 percent and tied in 7th to 8th place with Revilla.
Manhit urged voters to look beyond popularity, media exposure, and party affiliation, and focus on the candidates' track records and plans for Filipinos. 'Now is the time to critically examine each candidate's track record, values, and platform. Who has truly served the public with integrity? Who offers clear, achievable solutions to the country's pressing issues?' Manhit said.
The nationwide survey polled 1,800 registered voters and has a ±2.31 percent margin of error. Respondents were asked who they would most likely vote for if the elections were held during the survey period.
