RPMD releases new survey results

CEBU, Philippines — A few months before the May 2025 polls, an independent and non-commissioned survey initiative has released new results for different positions in the Province of Cebu.

The RPMD Foundation Inc. (RPMD), through its independent initiative called ‘Boses ng Bayan’ has unveiled its latest electoral survey including for governor that shows incumbent Governor Gwen Garcia commanding a 90.2 percent voter support for her reelection bid.

In contrast, her challenger, Pamela Baricuatro, secured a 5.4 percent voter backing.

It said that Garcia's performance ratings, consistently topping national surveys with a 95 percent approval rating is a testament to her grassroots connections and effective governance.

According to Dr. Paul Martinez, Global Affairs Analyst and Executive Director of RPMD, Garcia’s endorsement is one of the most coveted assets for candidates aiming for national positions in the 2025 elections and beyond.

The 'Boses ng Bayan' survey conducted November 15-20, 2024, in the Province of Cebu reportedly interviewed 2,500 respondents face-to-face, achieving a margin of error of +_2 percent and a 95 percent confidence level. The survey asked respondents, "If the elections occur today, who will you vote for as Governor?"

In another survey conducted by RPMD, it shows that Cebu Fifth District Duke Frasco emerged as the favorite for the congressional seat with 86 percent against incumbent Danao City Mayor Mix Durano with 10 percent.

In Cebu's second district, it's a neck-to-neck fight between incumbent vice governor Hilario Davide III who got 35.8 percent against incumbent congressman Edcel Galeos who got 40.6 percent for the congressional seat.

RPMD said that the dynamic rivalry between these two leaders sets the stage for a high-stakes showdown as both camps intensify their efforts to sway the undecided electorate.

“Galeos must recalibrate his priorities and address the emerging discontent among his constituents if he aims to maintain his seat. Meanwhile, Davide's momentum suggests that his candidacy is gaining traction, positioning him as a formidable challenger in the race,” it said.

As for Lapu-Lapu City Mayor Junard Chan and Talisay City Mayor Samsam Gullas, they tied on the first spot as best performing mayors in Cebu Province with stellar performance scores of 91.8 percent and 91.5 percent, respectively.

Mayor Raymond Garcia of Cebu City scored 88.7 percent, and Mayor Joie Perales of Toledo City, who scored 87.9 percent, secured the second spot.

Mayor Val Chiong of Naga City achieved third place with 84.6 percent, followed by Mayor Carlo Jose Martinez of Bogo City, who scored 82.8 percent. Mayor Patrick Barcenas of Carcar City scored 80.2 percent, while Mayor Mix Durano of Danao City rounded up the list with 75.4 percent.

Martinez said that these commendable performances of the mayors not only enhance the quality of life for their constituents but also set a high standard for governance across the nation and the legacy of these mayors demonstrates that ethical and practical leadership remains the cornerstone of sustainable progress in local communities.

The survey for the said cities and district, part of RPMD's nationwide initiative, reportedly involved 10,000 respondents across Cebu Province and was conducted using face-to-face interviews and random sampling.

Further, in the latest independent survey conducted by RPMD in Cebu City's political landscape, it reveals a decisive preference for incumbent Mayor Raymond Garcia over dismissed Mayor Mike Rama for the upcoming 2025 elections.

The survey gauges voter sentiment and shows Mayor Garcia leading with 43.7 percent voter support, followed by Mike Rama with 21.5 percent.

While other mayoralty aspirants, incumbent City Councilor Nestor Archival garnered 14.3 percent, while former Bureau of Customs Commissioner Yogi Ruiz received 7.1 percent, leaving 13.4 percent of voters undecided.

The latest 'Boses ng Bayan' poll for Cebu City, as well as the other cities and districts, conducted November 15-20, 2024, gathered insights from 1,800 registered voters using random sampling and face-to-face interviews. With a margin of error of 2 percent and a confidence level of 95 percent, the survey accurately represents the true sentiments of Cebu City's electorate, says Martinez. — (FREEMAN)