Photo credit: Inday Sara Duterte

In a recent survey conducted by the Social Weather Stations (SWS) from December 12 to 18, 2024, a hot topic on the impeachment complaint against Vice-President Sara Duterte took center stage. Sponsored by Stratbase Consultancy, this survey gauged the public’s awareness and opinions on the allegations swirling around Duterte, shedding light on the nation’s pulse during these politically charged times.

What the Survey Uncovered

The survey, which involved 2,160 adults across the Philippines, began by explaining the impeachment process and its relevance to high-ranking officials like the Vice President. It highlighted various allegations against Duterte, including unexplained expenditures, refusal to cooperate with investigations, and alleged ill-gotten wealth.

When asked if they were previously aware of the impeachment complaint, 47% of respondents said they had heard of it before the survey, while 53% learned about it during the interview. This indicates a relatively even split in awareness among the public.

The Nation Speaks: Agree or Disagree?

One of the key questions posed was whether respondents agreed or disagreed with the impeachment complaint. Here’s how the numbers broke down:

• 41% agreed with the impeachment complaint.

• 35% disagreed.

• 19% were undecided.

• 5% did not have enough information to form an opinion.

These results reveal a nation divided, with a significant portion still undecided or unaware, reflecting the complexity and sensitivity of the issue.

What Allegations Resonate Most?

Respondents were also asked which allegations they believed could serve as a basis for impeachment. The top concerns included:

• Unexplained spending of confidential and intelligence funds (46%)

• Refusal to answer investigations (36%)

• Ill-gotten wealth (25%)

• Threats to high-profile figures (24%)

• Involvement in extrajudicial killings (23%)

Other concerns like failure to condemn China’s actions in the West Philippine Sea and controversial trips during crises also featured, albeit less prominently.

Survey Methodology

The survey was conducted through face-to-face interviews across various regions, ensuring a comprehensive national perspective. With a margin of error of ±2% for national results, the findings provide a reliable snapshot of public sentiment on this significant political issue.

The Bigger Picture

As the nation watches the unfolding drama surrounding VP Sara Duterte’s impeachment complaint, this SWS survey offers crucial insights into how Filipinos view the allegations and the potential implications for the country’s leadership. Whether these opinions will influence the political landscape remains to be seen, but one thing is clear: the Filipino public is engaged and paying attention.