Support Gap Narrows in Potential Presidential Race Between Duterte and Robredo

Recent polling data from OCTA Research indicates that the support gap between Vice President Sara Duterte and former Vice President Leni Robredo has shrunk to seven percentage points. This marks the closest results recorded by OCTA in their surveys of these two potential presidential candidates.

The survey found that, as of the latest data, 26 percent of respondents remain undecided on their choice, with just 1 percent refusing to answer. This follows previous trends indicating a gradual reduction in the support gap, which was reported as 11 percentage points in the first quarter of the year, with Duterte leading at 46 percent compared to Robredo's 35 percent.

By the second quarter, the gap narrowed to 9 points, showing Duterte at 43 percent and Robredo at 34 percent. However, OCTA clarified that the closing gap is primarily due to a decline in support for Duterte, not an increase for Robredo. Throughout the survey periods, Robredo's support has remained relatively stable at around 34 to 35 percent, while Duterte's vote share decreased by six percentage points.

Factors that could alter these results include the filing of candidacies, political alliances, ongoing legal issues, and other significant matters facing the country. The survey was conducted from September 28 to October 4, 2026, with face-to-face interviews involving 1,200 respondents aged 18 and older.

Reporting by Jeff Malate for Rapport Philippines. This report was prepared from available source material and reviewed for factual consistency. Further verified updates will be added as the newsroom receives them.