Sara Duterte remains top choice for president, poll says

Vice President Sara Duterte remains the most preferred presidential candidate, according to an Octa Research nationwide survey. The Tugon ng Masa survey, released on Wednesday, showed Duterte leading by nine points in the presidential race against Naga City Mayor Leni Robredo in the second quarter of 2026. The survey was conducted from June 15 to July 10, 2026, with 1,200 adult respondents randomly selected from different regions of the Philippines. The results indicate a narrowing gap between the two leading candidates, suggesting a more competitive political landscape. Duterte's continued lead highlights her enduring popularity and strong support base. Meanwhile, Robredo's performance suggests a growing momentum for the opposition, potentially indicating a shift in voter sentiment or successful campaign efforts. Philippine presidential elections are often characterized by high levels of public engagement and the influence of prominent political figures. The Octa Research findings provide a snapshot of the current preferences of the Filipino electorate and will be closely watched as potential contenders strategize for future campaigns. The close margin between Duterte and Robredo suggests that the upcoming electoral period could be highly contested.