Senator Bong Go topped the latest senatorial survey by Social Weather Stations (SWS), securing 45% of voter preference just weeks ahead of the May 2025 midterm elections.
Commissioned by the Stratbase Group and conducted from April 11 to 15, the nationwide poll showed Go climbing three points from the previous month, reinforcing his front-runner status. ACT-CIS Partylist Rep. Erwin Tulfo followed closely with 43%, while Senator Lito Lapid ranked third at 34%.
Former Senate President Tito Sotto and Senator Pia Cayetano tied at 33%, taking the 4th and 5th spots, respectively. Senator Ronald “Bato” Dela Rosa followed with 32%, while Senator Bong Revilla and broadcaster Ben Tulfo shared 7th and 8th places at 31%. Ben Tulfo, however, slipped from a previous third-place position.
Makati Mayor Abby Binay (29%) and Rep. Camille Villar (28%) entered the top 10, showing improved standings from last month. Former Senator Ping Lacson fell to 11th with 26%, while former boxing champ Manny Pacquiao held the 12th spot with 25%.
TV host Willie Revillame and Senator Imee Marcos were just outside the winning circle, both tied at 24%. Former Senators Bam Aquino and Kiko Pangilinan followed with 21% support.
Stratbase President Dindo Manhit pointed out that administration-backed candidates are benefitting from clear advantages. “Their incumbency and strong name recall — often built over the years in public office or media exposure — keep them top-of-mind for voters,” he said in an ABS-CBN News report. “Access to government machinery and well-organized local networks amplifies their visibility and reach, especially in the provinces.”
He also emphasized the power of media familiarity. “Media leverage, particularly among candidates with broadcasting backgrounds, ensures sustained exposure across platforms,” Manhit added.
However, Manhit called on the public to look deeper than just popularity. “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?” he said. “Let’s use this time to make informed, thoughtful choices — because the quality of our next Senate will shape our future long after election day has passed.”
The SWS survey was conducted among 1,800 registered voters nationwide, with a margin of error of ±2.31%.
