MANILA, Philippines — Social Weather Stations (SWS) survey shows that Filipinos trust Manila Mayor Isko Moreno Domagoso more than the presidential frontrunner, former Senator Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr.
Based on the study conducted from January 28-31, 70% of respondents trusted Moreno more than his strong opponent Marcos Jr., who got 64%. 16% are undecided, and 13% have little trust in Moreno. Also, 17% of respondents are unsure if they trust Marcos Jr., and 18% said they have little confidence in the former legislator.
On January 22, the 47-year-old Aksyon Demokratiko presidential bet was one of the four presidential candidates who attended ‘The Jessica Soho Presidential Interviews.’ Moreno trended on google on the same date, and his entire interview video has already reached 2.1 million views on GMA News’ official Youtube channel. Netizens praised his direct and practical answers to questions thrown at him.
One of the highlights of Moreno’s interview is when he promised to finish the long-awaited Marawi City and return its residents to their communities by December this year. Moreno has likewise stated that he will not allow China to expand further in the Philippine domain and will take back Philippine-claimed territories China had dominated. He assured Filipino fishers that they should fish freely in Philippine waters.
Meanwhile, the late dictator’s son, Marcos Jr., did not attend, citing that the interview host, Jessica Soho, was biased against the Marcoses. The GMA Network has objected to this allegation and stressed that Soho has consistently been named the most trusted media personality in the Philippines by both local and foreign organizations.
Presidential interviews are considered one of the possible factors affecting pre-election surveys. As the campaign starts, Moreno and other top presidential candidates are scheduled to attend more forums, namely Vice President Leni Robredo, Senator Manny Pacquiao, and Senator Panfilo Lacson, which could change poll results in the next few months.
Marcos Jr. spokesperson, lawyer Vic Rodriguez earlier announced that the former senator would not join presidential forums that will have candidates debate each other.