Villar narrows Aquino’s lead in surveys

Tuesday, 02 February 2010 11:02 AM Fidelis Angela Tan

The results of the latest Social Weather Stations (SWS) survey show Nacionalista Party standard-bearer Senator Manny Villar’s continual encroachment upon the lead of the Liberal Party’s Senator Noynoy Aquino. From a lead of 11 percentage points early in January, Aquino now remains ahead by only 7 percentage points.

According to the survey conducted on January 21-24, with 2,100 adult Filipino respondents, 42% would vote for Aquino while 35% would vote for Villar.

“I am happy about the survey that I continue to get good ratings and the margin is getting closer,” said Villar. “This is very inspiring for me and my colleagues. This shows that our fellow countrymen are starting to know who we are, what we have done in the past and how we can help in the future.”

According to the SWS however, “the numbers will still change in favor of Aquino and against Villar” due to the scandal Villar is currently embroiled in.

“The full impact and implication of the Senate C-5 report...had not yet sunk into the consciousness of the voters,” the report said.

Meanwhile, Aquino’s supporters remain confident despite his narrowing lead.

"We're not worried. Senator Noy's numbers are stable and within the margin of error. Senator Villar's increase is due to massive ad placements on TV and radio," said LP spokesperson and Quezon Representative Erin Tañada.

"We are encouraged by the deep commitment of support from more than 40 percent of the voter base despite the relentless assault of multibillion peso campaigns," added Aquino’s spokesperson Edwin Lacierda.

Other presidentiables far behind

Former president Joseph Estrada came in third with 13% while administration bet and former defense secretary Gilberto Teodoro Jr. came next with 4%. Senator Richard Gordon and Jesus is Lord founder Brother Eddie Villanueva both got 2% of potential votes.

All other presidential candidates scored less than 1%, with independent runner Senator Jamby Madrigal garnering 0.4%, Kilusang Bagong Lipunan’s Vetellano Acosta with 0.3%, Ang Kapatiran Party’s John Carlos de los Reyes with 0.2 % and environmental activist Nicanor Perlas at the bottom rung with 0.1%.

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