A recent survey by OCTA Research suggests that more Filipinos support the administration of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. than the political camp of former President Rodrigo Duterte, according to La Union 1st District Rep. Paolo Ortega.
The survey, released on Wednesday, revealed that 36 percent of respondents back Marcos’ administration, while only 18 percent support the Duterte family and their allies. Meanwhile, 8 percent align with the opposition, 26 percent consider themselves independent, and 12 percent did not disclose their stance.
Ortega emphasized that the results reflect more than just political allegiances, suggesting a deeper divide in national interests. “This survey confirms that Filipinos are firmly standing with Team Pilipinas, rejecting leaders who have compromised the nation for China—whether by surrendering our rights in the West Philippine Sea or enabling the unchecked rise of Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators (Pogos) controlled by Chinese interests,” he said.
The lawmaker criticized Duterte’s administration for its handling of territorial disputes and the proliferation of Pogos, which he claimed became hubs for illicit activities. “Duterte’s loyalty to China wasn’t just about the West Philippine Sea. It extended to Pogos, which became hubs for crime, human trafficking, and corruption,” Ortega stated.
He further commended Marcos for taking a firm stance on national security and economic concerns. “President Bongbong Marcos is standing up for the country. He is defending our waters, going after illegal Pogos, and cutting off China’s backdoor influence,” he added.
During his presidency, Duterte was known for fostering closer ties with China, downplaying the Philippines’ arbitration victory over the West Philippine Sea dispute and even joking about making the country a Chinese province.
