Alyansa senatorial candidate and former Interior Secretary Benhur Abalos Jr. recorded the most significant increase in voter support in the latest Social Weather Stations survey, climbing from 17 percent in March to 24 percent in May.
The survey, conducted from May 2 to 6, reflected rising momentum for Abalos, who was also among the contenders in the 10-20 bracket in the April 20–24 poll by OCTA Research.
The spike in his numbers also coincided with high-profile endorsements, including from former Vice President Leni Robredo and TV icon Vice Ganda.
“He has been our friend for a long time, served as mayor of Mandaluyong for many years, became DILG Secretary—a very good one—and also served as MMDA Chairman. Now he’s running for senator,” Robredo said in Bicolano.
“We will help him because he has long been helping us here in Naga, especially during Typhoon Kristine. He came here several times to help. He did it quietly, but he always helped,” she added.
Meanwhile, Abalos and former Senator Manny Pacquiao also logged a surge in public support in the run-up to the May 12 elections in the latest nationwide survey by McHenry & Associates.
The May 5–7 poll, conducted among 3,700 adult respondents nationwide, showed Abalos garnering a strong 33.2 percent support rating, while Pacquiao followed closely with 33 percent.
The survey firm said the voter preference could be attributed to the two candidates’ respective high-visibility campaigns, strong grassroots networks, and reformist image.
