4 in 10 Pinoys satisfied with state of democracy

MANILA, Philippines — Although most Filipinos still believe that democracy is still the best system for the Philippines, less than a majority are satisfied with how it currently works in the country, a survey conducted by the OCTA Research group said.

The survey, conducted from Sept. 25 to 30, found that 80 percent of the respondents “still prefer democracy in the Philippines, even if it has many problems.”

Eighteen percent disagreed, while two percent were undecided.

But when asked whether they were satisfied or dissatisfied with the current state of democracy in the country, only 41 percent said they were “very satisfied” or “somewhat satisfied.”

Thirty-one percent said they were “very dissatisfied” or “somewhat satisfied,” while 26 percent were undecided. The remaining two percent said they do not know.

“The survey data show that while democracy remains an enduring ideal, satisfaction with its current practice is uneven and marked by significant levels of dissatisfaction, particularly in the Visayas, Mindanao and among older or rural respondents,” OCTA said in its analysis.

“This pattern suggests that many Filipinos continue to value democracy but question its effectiveness in addressing persistent social and governance issues. The high proportion of dissatisfaction indicates growing discontent with how democratic institutions function in practice,” it added.

Citing its findings over the past four years, OCTA said trust in democracy often fluctuates in tandem with perceptions of government performance, corruption and responsiveness to citizens’ concerns.

“The data point to a public desire not to abandon democracy, but to see it work better – through more accountable leadership, stronger institutions, effective and inclusive governance that delivers on its promises,” added the firm.

The survey had 1,200 respondents and a margin of error of plus/minus three percent.