Administration Senate bets Benhur Abalos and Manny Pacquiao appear to be peaking in voter preference at just the perfect time.
Abalos, a former Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) secretary, climbed from 17 percent in March to 24 percent in May in terms of voter support based on the results of the latest Social Weather Stations (SWS) survey.
Conducted nationwide from May 2 to May 6, the SWS survey reflected a growing momentum for Abalos, who previously ranked within the competitive 10th to 20th bracket in the April 20 to 24 survey by OCTA Research.
The top 12 candidates in the Senate race will be proclaimed as winners by the Commission on Elections (Comelec.)
Analysts attribute this notable improvement in voter preference to Abalos' intensified campaign efforts, strategic communications, and a series of influential endorsements that have bolstered his public image and electoral appeal.
Among the Alyansa para sa Bagong Pilipinas senatorial candidate's most prominent endorsers is former Vice President Leni Robredo, who publicly backed his senatorial bid in her home region, Bicol. Speaking in her native dialect, Robredo emphasized Abalos' extensive experience and proven track record in public service.
"He has been our friend for a long time, having served diligently as mayor of Mandaluyong City for many years. He was also an exemplary secretary of the Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG) and previously served effectively as chairman of the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA). Now he is vying for a seat in the Senate," Robredo said.
She further underscored Abalos' consistent support for local communities, particularly recalling his quiet yet impactful assistance during moments of crisis. "We will support him wholeheartedly because he has long been helping us here in Naga City, especially during Typhoon Kristine. He visited us several times to provide aid and assistance. He did so quietly, without fanfare, but always with genuine concern and compassion," Robredo added.
Abalos also received the backing of popular television personality Vice Ganda, whose influence and extensive social media following have significantly amplified the candidate's visibility among younger voters and entertainment-oriented demographic segments.
Meanwhile, a separate nationwide survey conducted by polling firm McHenry & Associates from May 5 to May 7 showed Abalos further solidifying his position among the leading senatorial candidates, garnering a robust voter support rating of 33.2 percent.
Former senator and boxing icon Pacquiao closely trailed Abalos in the same survey, registering a similarly impressive 33 percent preference score.
McHenry & Associates, which polled 3,700 adult respondents across the country, noted that the substantial rise in voter preference for both Abalos and Pacquiao could be attributed to their respective high-visibility campaigns, extensive grassroots networks, and distinct reformist narratives that resonate strongly with voters seeking change and effective governance.
Abalos, in particular, built a reputation off his leadership in internal government reforms, urban governance, and public safety initiatives. His previous roles as MMDA chairman and DILG secretary have earned him recognition for decisive leadership, transparency, and efficiency.
Pacquiao, on the other hand, continues to benefit from his enduring popularity, mass appeal, and pro-poor advocacy.
His personal narrative of overcoming poverty to achieve international boxing fame and his consistent stance on social justice and poverty alleviation have solidified his appeal among marginalized sectors and grassroots communities.
The recent rise in voter support for Abalos and Pacquiao comes amid indications of declining momentum for other high-profile senatorial aspirants, particularly candidates from established political dynasties or those primarily reliant on traditional media presence.
McHenry & Associates emphasized that the current electoral landscape reflects an increasingly fluid and personality-driven dynamic, highlighting voters' growing preference for candidates perceived as authentic, competent, and reform-oriented.
With the May 12 elections rapidly approaching, political analysts suggest that the shifting voter preferences captured by these latest surveys indicate a highly competitive poll.