MANILA, PHILIPPINES—Vice President Sara Duterte remains the top preferred candidate for the 2028 presidential elections, while Leni Robredo has significantly closed the gap, according to a March 2026 survey conducted by OCTA Research.

The survey results show Duterte still leading nationally with 33%, but with a noticeably slimmer margin compared to previous polls. Robredo emerged as the second choice among respondents with 21%, signaling a more competitive race early in the election cycle.

Manila Mayor Isko Moreno followed with 10% of respondents naming him as their preferred candidate, while Raffy Tulfo trailed closely at 9%.

OCTA Research President Ranjit Rye said the numbers reflect shifting voter preferences and a changing political landscape.

“This is a much closer contest compared to before,” Rye explained, noting that earlier surveys showed Duterte with a wider lead.

Data from the poll indicate that Duterte continues to dominate in Mindanao and the Visayas, while Robredo is gaining stronger support in key urban and vote-rich areas such as Metro Manila and Luzon.

Despite Duterte’s lead, analysts pointed out that a significant portion of voters remains undecided — a factor that could still reshape the race as 2028 approaches.

“Undecided voters will play a crucial role,” Rye added, emphasizing that campaign strategies and national issues will likely influence future survey results.

The findings come as Duterte has already declared her intention to run for president in 2028, while Robredo has not formally announced a bid but continues to be viewed as a strong potential contender.