Corruption is deeply entrenched in government, according to 94 percent of respondents to an independent survey conducted in December.

The latest figure was a slight improvement over the previous survey results.

The adverse results came despite high-profile resignations, ongoing investigations, and persistent nationwide protests, according to the latest Ulat ng Bayan survey by Pulse Asia Research Inc.

The nationwide survey, conducted from 12 to 15 December of 1,200 adults, found that nearly all respondents view corruption as widespread, with 71 percent describing it as very widespread.

Although this represented a decline relative to September 2025, public concern remained overwhelmingly high.

The data also indicated a strong consensus among Filipinos on what constitutes corrupt behavior, with 74 percent saying accepting or giving bribes is corruption, 66 percent citing the misuse of public or company funds, and 64 percent pointing to kickbacks related to contracts or services.

These views remained essentially unchanged from September to December 2025.

Opinion was more divided on whether corruption is simply a part of the political system, as 41 percent agreed that corruption is a regular part of Philippine politics, while 43 percent disagreed.

The perception of corruption included the Sandiganbayan’s declaration of former Ako Bicol Partylist Representative Elizaldy Co as a fugitive from justice, the bribery and plunder allegations linked to flood control projects involving former Sen. Ramon Revilla Jr., and the surrender of contractor Sarah Discaya in connection with a ghost infrastructure project.

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, which called for transparency and accountability.

Meanwhile, the Independent Commission for Infrastructure (ICI) held hearings but these were perceived to be a coverup, as the “big fish” remained free.

Calls intensified — from former Department of Public Works and Highways Secretary Rogelio Singson, who resigned from the ICI, and various business groups — for a more powerful and independent investigative body.

Public frustration, lingering hope

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

Analysts noted that while the drop 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, including a proposed anti-political dynasty bill, after deliberating on the P6.793-trillion 2026 national budget, Pulse Asia’s findings suggest that public vigilance remains high over the government and its officials.