An anti-corruption advocate in the House of Representatives on Tuesday voiced concern over a survey result, which indicated corruption as the top issue that Filipinos believe need urgent attention.
Rep. Eddie Villanueva of Citizens Battle Against Corruption (CIBAC) was referring to the third quarter PAHAYAG survey of political consultancy firm PUBLiCUS Asia, Inc.
The poll revealed that 18 percent of the 1,500 respondents view corruption as the most pressing concern, surpassing inflation (15 percent), economic challenges (12 percent), and poverty (11 percent).
The survey, conducted from September 15-19, 2024, highlighted a growing frustration with governance and accountability, marking a significant shift in public priorities.
According to Villanueva, “the survey result is an alarming reminder that corruption is the real enemy obstructing the nation’s genuine progress.”
“It is so rampant and pervasive that its ill-effects are felt in Filipinos’ daily lives,” he added.
Villanueva stressed the survey result is an urgent call for the government to work double-time to sack corrupt officials, jail them, and obliterate opportunities for corruption.
“Unless we face squarely the sickening state of corruption in the country, the gains that we are all aspiring or working for will be in vain, leaving our country in a vicious, perpetual cycle of poverty and hardship,” he said.
Previously, inflation held the top spot, but corruption now leads as the primary issue that the public expects President Marcos to address.
Inflation and rising prices remain critical issues, nonetheless, with Filipinos continuing to feel the pressure of escalating costs of essential goods. Economic concerns and poverty are also still significant, with many citizens hoping for policies that directly impact their everyday struggles.
The survey also uncovered a deep-seated fear among households regarding their ability to meet basic needs.
About 14 percent of respondents are worried about not being able to provide for their families, followed by concerns over rising commodity prices (13 percent) and insufficient wages (12 percent).
Despite these challenges, 71 percent of registered voters report feeling happy, showcasing the enduring resilience of Filipinos. Financial stability (50 percent) and good health (41 percent) emerged as the top goals for many, reflecting their desire for security amid ongoing economic uncertainties.
PAHAYAG 2024 is an independent, non-commissioned survey conducted by PUBLiCUS Asia, Inc. It gathered responses from 1,500 registered voters, selected via purposive sampling, through PureSpectrum’s online panel of over 200,000 Filipino voters.
