Makati City Mayor Abigail Binay has seen a significant increase in her ranking in the latest senatorial preference surveys conducted by Pulse Asia and Social Weather Stations (SWS).
In Pulse Asia’s nationwide non-commissioned survey conducted from September 6 to 13, Binay is ranked fourth to ninth among senatorial preferences, compared to her previous ranking of 14th to 23rd.
Binay also made substantial gains in the SWS survey commissioned by think-tank Stratbase. Previously ranked 16th in March, the mayor now holds the 9th to 10th position in the survey conducted from September 14 to 23 and posted on the SWS website.
“There’s more work to be done, and for now, I am grateful for the support. I would also like to reiterate my thanks to President Bongbong Marcos Jr. for believing in me and endorsing my candidacy under the Alyansa para sa Bagong Pilipinas,” Binay said.
Pulse Asia conducted its senatorial preference survey for the third quarter among 2,400 registered voters nationwide, while SWS covered 1,500 respondents.
Topping the survey was Rep. Erwin Tulfo, followed by his brother, Ben Tulfo, and former Senate President Tito Sotto, who were tied at second and third slots. Sharing fourth and fifth places were reelectionists Bong Go and Pia Cayetano, with former President Rodrigo Duterte and Binay tied at sixth and seventh.
Rounding out the next 5 slots were reelectionist Bong Revilla, comebacking senators Ping Lacson and Manny Pacquiao, and reelectionists Imee Marcos, Bato dela Rosa, and Lito Lapid.
If elected, Binay said she would push a measure to update laws that have long hindered the progress of local governments in delivering efficient and effective services.
She said these legislative reforms are critical to empowering local chief executives and enhancing governance at the grassroots level.
The mayor cited the Local Government Code of 1991 as a prime example of legislation that requires immediate revision.
“The Local Government Code served its purpose when it was enacted, but after over three decades, it no longer addresses the complexities of modern local governance. Our municipalities, cities, and barangays face new challenges, and we need laws that are responsive to the current realities of public service,” she stated.
Binay pointed out that disparities in the way local government units (LGUs) manage their budgets have become increasingly apparent.
“From small municipalities to highly urbanized cities like Makati, there are significant differences in how barangays handle their financial resources. Many LGUs are constrained by outdated laws that prevent them from utilizing their funds effectively,” she said.
