Pinoys want job creation in Senate bets’ platforms – Pulse

MANILA, Philippines —  For most Filipinos, job creation should be included in the platforms of senatorial candidates in the May 2025 midterm elections, a commissioned Pulse Asia survey showed.

Over half or 57 percent of 2,400 respondents selected “job creation, livelihood generation and financial literacy” as issues that should be outlined in candidates’ platforms.

“Investment-led economic growth” was selected by 44 percent of respondents, followed by “fighting corruption” at 41 percent.

The Sept. 6 to 13 survey, commissioned by Stratbase ADR Institute, allowed respondents to select up to three issues.

Other issues included in the survey were quality health care (33 percent), quality education (29 percent), peace and order (24 percent), wider internet access (19 percent), building various renewable energy sources (18 percent), reliable mass transportation (17 percent) and illegal drugs (15 percent).

Reacting to the survey results, Stratbase founder Dindo Manhit noted the importance of investment-led growth for sustained economic development.

“When we prioritize investments, we not only fuel sustainable growth but also build a foundation that allows us to recover swiftly from disruptions, empowering us to face future challenges with confidence,” he said.

Candidates should prioritize fighting corruption in their platforms, he noted.

“Voters want to see a commitment to integrity and accountability from those who aim to serve and a clear stance on anti-corruption is essential for building public trust,” Manhit said.

Corrupt government officials must be held accountable, according to 91 percent of respondents.

The survey also asked respondents what they think are the benefits of controlling corruption.

Some 61 percent said it would increase trust in government, followed by 58 percent who said it would improve ordinary lives.

Other perceived benefits are economic growth (52 percent), achieving good governance (45 percent), effective delivery of public services (40 percent) and efficient utilization of government funds (35 percent).

Asked how corruption affects them, 65 percent of respondents said it resulted in loss of trust in public officials.

Other impacts include