Mindanao Distrust in Marcos Soars to 81%: Pulse Asia Survey

A recent Pulse Asia survey reveals a stark contrast in public trust ratings between President Bongbong Marcos and his predecessor, Rodrigo Duterte. The survey, conducted from May 6-9, 2025, shows a significant 81% distrust rating for Marcos in Mindanao. This is considerably higher than the distrust levels shown for Duterte (17%) and Vice President Sara Duterte (25%). Ronald Holmes, President of Pulse Asia, stated that "in March, he had a disapproval and distrust that was at the majority." Professor Froilan Calilung, from the Political Science Department at UST, adds context, observing that "Mindanao will always be Duterte power block whether we like it or not." The survey also reveals that 58% of respondents disagree with the arrest of former President Duterte, highlighting the complex political landscape in the Philippines. This significant disparity in public perception warrants further investigation and analysis of the underlying factors influencing these opinions. The high level of distrust towards President Marcos in Mindanao, a region historically aligned with the Duterte family, is particularly noteworthy.