By Genalyn Kabiling Public trust in President Duterte is “increasing” mainly due to his strong political will, sincerity, and hard work in carrying out reforms in the country, Malacañang said Thursday. Presidential Spokesman Salvador Panelo (OPS / MANILA BULLETIN) After a Pulse Asia survey showed the President is the most trusted government official, Presidential Spokesman Salvador Panelo said the public remains satisfied with the Pesident's governance regardless of the pronouncement from his critics and detractors. "Not surprising. It keeps on increasing, simply because the President is a very transparent leader," Panelo said during a Palace press briefing when asked about the President’s latest trust and approval ratings. "His political will shows in every measure or step he has undertaken. It shows how sincere he is, and the people are satisfied with his method of governance," he added. Panelo also pointed out that the President continues to enjoy stable public trust and approval ratings despite the controversy generated by his West Philippine Sea policy. He said the public support for the President indicate that his critics and detractors should "awaken" from their "slumber or sleep." "All the criticisms against this President relative to drugs vis-à-vis the West Philippine Sea and other issues of national interest are all wrong – no basis," he said. Th survey, conducted last month, showed the President having an 85 percent performance rating, from his 87 percent score in March. Only 3 percent disapproved of the President's work while 11 percent were undecided. The President's trust rating also stayed at 85 percent.