President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s approval ratings dipped toward the end of 2024, but Malacañang says he remains unfazed.
Why?
Because the Palace believes the decline is tied to his decision to investigate anomalous flood control projects—a move officials insist is necessary, even if unpopular.
Here’s what you need to know:
What the survey says
According to Pulse Asia’s December 2024 survey, the president’s disapproval rating inched up to 48% from 44% in September while his approval rating is 34%, slight increase from 33%. Eighteen percent of the respondents were undecided.
This means nearly half of Filipinos expressed dissatisfaction with Marcos’ performance as the year closed.
Why flood control projects are at the center
Palace press officer Claire Castro explained that the president’s ratings may have dropped because of his push to investigate irregular flood control projects.
These projects are crucial for infrastructure and disaster preparedness.
Allegations of ghost projects and kickbacks have long plagued the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH). Marcos Jr. reportedly knew the probe would generate “political noise” and affect allies, but pressed on “for the good of the country.”
The Duterte comparison
Castro contrasted Marcos’ move with the previous administration:
- Former president Rodrigo Duterte enjoyed consistently high ratings.
- In 2020, Duterte ordered an audit of DPWH projects, but critics say few cases were filed and no major personalities were held accountable.
- Castro argued that high ratings did not translate into decisive action against corruption.
She also took aim at Vice President Sara Duterte’s confidential funds, claiming investigations have stalled due to political allies blocking scrutiny.
What this means politically
Marcos Jr. is signaling that integrity trumps popularity—at least in this case.
The Palace is framing the survey decline as a short-term cost of pursuing accountability. In contrast, Castro said, Duterte’s high ratings don’t necessarily mean effective governance.
Bottom line
Marcos Jr.’s approval ratings may have slipped. But Malacañang insists the president is focused on cleaning up flood control projects—a sector notorious for corruption.
Whether this gamble pays off politically depends on whether investigations lead to real accountability.
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