With prices going up and many struggling to make ends meet, nine out of 10 or 94 percent Filipinos said they will vote for candidates who will create more job opportunities and ensure food security in the 2025 elections.
This is based on the latest Social Weather Stations (SWS) survey commissioned by Stratbase Consultancy. The poll was conducted from January 17 to 20, 2025 with 1,800 respondents and a ±2% margin of error.
The results showed that Filipinos want leaders who advocate and prioritize top concerns, including job creation, food security, healthcare, education, and support for overseas Filipino workers (OFWs).
“Achieving food security is a reachable goal and it is imperative that we keep a laser-like focus on this issue because it affects every Filipino and seeps into each aspect of our nation’s life,” said Stratbase Institute President Victor Manhit.
“Job security, on the other hand, must be strengthened to ensure stability for workers. At the same time, Filipino talent remains underutilized due to labor market constraints. Unlocking the full potential of our workforce is essential for driving economic progress and fostering inclusive growth,” he added.
Earlier, a separate SWS report said many Filipinos are also worried about hunger and rising prices, rating the government’s efforts to “ensure no family goes hungry” as only moderate, while its performance in “fighting inflation” was rated as poor.
The Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) reported that inflation went up by 2.9% in December 2024, higher than the 2.5% increase in November. The Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) warned that prices could rise even more in 2025 due to possible increases in transport fares and electricity rates.
“Inflation is a powerful destabilizer. Going forward, the government must strike a balance between generating more revenue and ensuring that its reforms do not unintentionally impose hardships on Filipino consumers,” Manhit said.
Aside from food and jobs, Filipinos also want better healthcare. The survey found that 93% will vote for candidates who promise to “strengthen the healthcare system.”
Meanwhile, 92% will choose leaders who push for “equal access to education” as well as “workers’ rights and OFW welfare.”
Around 87% say they will support candidates who will work to reduce hunger and poverty, as well as prepare for disasters and fight climate change.