Despite resignations, investigations, and nationwide protests, corruption remains a pervasive concern for Filipinos, with nearly all adults saying it is widespread, according to the December 2025 Ulat ng Bayan survey by Pulse Asia Research, Inc.

The nationwide survey, conducted from 12 to 15 December 2025 among 1,200 adults, found that 94 percent of respondents believe corruption in government is widespread, while 71 percent describe it as very widespread.

Although this marks a seven-point decline from September 2025, public concern remains overwhelmingly high.

Pulse Asia data also show strong consensus on what Filipinos consider corrupt behavior. About 74 percent said accepting or giving bribes constitutes corruption, 66 percent cited the misuse of public or company funds, and 64 percent pointed to kickbacks related to contracts or services. These views remained largely unchanged from September to December 2025.

Opinion, however, is more divided on whether corruption is simply part of the political system. Some 41 percent agreed that corruption is a normal part of Philippine politics, while 43 percent disagreed—reflecting a society torn between frustration and resignation.

Recent developments fuel perceptions

The survey was conducted amid a string of high-profile corruption cases and political controversies widely reported by Philippine media. These included the Sandiganbayan’s declaration of former Ako Bicol Party-list Representative Elizaldy Co as a fugitive from justice, bribery and plunder allegations linked to flood control projects involving former senator Ramon Revilla Jr., and the surrender of Sarah Discaya in connection with a ghost infrastructure project.

Corruption complaints were also filed before the Office of the Ombudsman against the Vice President and officials of the Office of the Vice President and the Department of Education over the alleged misuse of ₱612.5 million in confidential funds.

At the executive level, the resignation of Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin and Budget Secretary Amenah Pangandaman, followed by leadership reshuffles, further underscored the political fallout from the controversies.

Public anger spilled onto the streets through protest actions such as the Trillion Peso March and the Baha sa Luneta rallies, alongside a large-scale rally organized by the Iglesia ni Cristo calling for transparency and accountability.

Meanwhile, hearings of the Independent Commission for Infrastructure (ICI) were livestreamed, even as calls intensified—from former Department of Public Works and Highways Secretary Rogelio Singson and various business groups—for a more powerful and independent investigative body.

Public frustration, lingering hope

Public sentiment was also shaped by everyday economic concerns, including backlash over the Department of Trade and Industry’s claim that P500 is sufficient for a Noche Buena meal, a statement widely criticized as unrealistic and out of touch.

Analysts note that while the decline in the “very widespread” corruption rating may suggest cautious optimism, Filipinos continue to view corruption as systemic—driven by entrenched practices, slow judicial processes, and political dynasties.

As Congress debates reforms such as a proposed anti-political dynasty bill and deliberates on the P6.793-trillion 2026 national budget, Pulse Asia’s findings suggest that public vigilance remains high.