Manila: The majority of Filipinos believe the national government is capable of addressing the country's problems, according to the latest Tugon ng Masa (TNM) survey conducted by OCTA Research. 'To the statement, 'I trust the national government to effectively address the country's problems,' a majority of adult Filipinos (55 percent) express trust in the national government's ability to handle issues effectively, while 20 percent express distrust,' the Q4 2025 nationwide survey released Monday read.
According to Philippines News Agency, the survey indicated that 25 percent of respondents remain undecided or ambivalent, signifying that while confidence in government performance exists, it is not yet fully consolidated. The survey revealed regional variations in trust levels, with the Visayas region showing the highest trust at 68 percent, whereas the National Capital Region and Balance Luzon recorded lower trust levels at 49 percent each. OCTA attributed these variations to factors such as greater exposure to policy debates, critical evaluations of government performance, increased access to information, and heightened political engagement in urban and politically dense areas.
Across different socioeconomic classes, trust in the national government remained at majority levels, ranging from 53 percent to 56 percent. However, distrust was most pronounced among class ABC respondents at 27 percent, indicating higher expectations and stricter standards among more economically secure groups. While the survey reflects majority confidence in government institutions, it also highlights a sense of disconnection between citizens and their elected leaders.
The findings show that only 31 percent of respondents believe that elected officials in Congress and local government value their views, while 61 percent feel otherwise. This suggests a stronger trust in institutions compared to elected politicians. OCTA Research stated that many Filipinos differentiate between trust in government institutions and confidence in elected politicians. While government institutions may be seen as capable of functioning effectively, elected officials are often evaluated more critically regarding their responsiveness and attentiveness.
OCTA emphasized that sustaining public confidence requires not only effective governance but also stronger perceptions of responsiveness and representation. The organization noted, "Improvements in performance alone may not be sufficient to rebuild trust in elected officials unless citizens also feel heard and valued in the political process."
The non-commissioned survey was conducted through face-to-face interviews from December 3 to 11, 2025, involving 1,200 adult respondents nationwide. OCTA Research indicated a ±3 percent margin of error at the national level and ±6 percent for major geographic areas.
