A commissioned survey released by the Social Weather Stations (SWS) on Friday, Jan. 31, revealed the key factors shaping Filipino voters' decisions in the 2025 elections.
The Stratbase-SWS January 2025 pre-election survey, conducted from Jan. 17 to 20 through face-to-face interviews with 1,800 registered voters, highlighted voters' top priorities, including job opportunities, healthcare, education, and workers' rights.
Leading the list were job creation, agricultural development, and food security, with 94 percent of respondents prioritizing these issues.
Meanwhile, 93 percent said they would vote for candidates who advocate for strengthening the healthcare system.
Additionally, 92 percent expressed support for candidates pushing for equal access to education, workers' rights, and the welfare of overseas Filipino workers (OFWs).
Candidates focusing on poverty and hunger reduction, climate change mitigation, and disaster preparedness would gain support from 87 percent of voters.
Controlling the prices of basic goods and services was a decisive factor for 85 percent of respondents, while 83 percent favored candidates prioritizing national security and sovereignty in the West Philippine Sea.
Energy security and renewable energy were key considerations for 82 percent of respondents, while 79 percent supported candidates who prioritize fighting illegal drugs, electoral reform, and modernizing elections through technology.
Furthermore, 70 percent said they would vote for candidates committed to eradicating graft and corruption in government.
Other significant issues influencing voter decisions include anti-political dynasty laws, legalizing divorce for separated couples, allowing medical marijuana for patients with serious illnesses, recognizing civil unions for LGBTQ+ individuals, and legalizing abortion for victims of rape and incest.
The 2025 midterm elections will take place in May.