(Bloomberg) -- Former Philippine Senator Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. kept his lead in the presidential race even as his closest rival, Vice President Leni Robredo gained ground, according to last month's survey by pollster Pulse Asia Research Inc.
The late dictator's son was favored by 56% of respondents, down from 60% in February. Robredo got 24%, up from 15% previously, while third-placer Manila Mayor Isko Moreno got 8%. The survey of 2,400 adults nationwide was conducted from March 17 to 21. The election will be held on May 9.
Robredo's numbers rose by double digits in areas on the main island of Luzon excluding the capital, as well as among the middle class. Moreno, meanwhile, remained the top alternate choice should any of the candidates discontinue their presidential bid.
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The survey was done around the time of the presidential debate organized by the poll body, which Marcos skipped. The key national events during survey period also included oil price increases due to Russia's invasion of Ukraine.
Davao City Mayor Sara Duterte, Marcos's running mate and the president's daughter, similarly kept her lead in the vice-presidential race, favored by 56% of respondents. Her closest rival, Senate President Vicente “Tito” Sotto, was at 20%.
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