Manila:With approximately 18 months remaining before the next presidential elections, Malacañang has downplayed a recent survey indicating Vice President Sara Duterte's narrowing lead over former Vice President Leni Robredo in a hypothetical 2028 presidential race. The Palace emphasized that President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. is more focused on governance than on election surveys.

According to Philippines News Agency, Palace Press Officer Claire Castro stated that surveys are not a priority for Malacañang. Instead, the President is concentrating on preparations for the upcoming ASEAN Summit, addressing the impacts of the intense El Niño phenomenon, the Middle East crisis, and other urgent issues.

Castro highlighted that the government is committed to resolving many issues for the Filipino people and is not preoccupied with survey standings. "There is no election yet. We will see the actual results when people vote," she added, stressing that the true outcome will be evident during the elections.

In response to the latest Tugon ng Masa survey by OCTA Research, which showed Duterte leading Robredo by 40 percent to 33 percent, Castro reiterated the importance of uncovering the truth, regardless of ongoing impeachment proceedings against Duterte. "Whether there is impeachment or none, the truth must come out, and anyone who should be held accountable must be held accountable," she affirmed.