Mar hopeful of victory after hike in ratings

MANILA, Philippines – Liberal Party (LP) standard-bearer Manuel Roxas II remains optimistic that he could still win the elections after his ratings inched up two weeks before the May 9 polls. 

The latest Pulse Asia presidential survey commissioned by ABS-CBN showed Davao City Mayor Rodrigo Duterte obtaining 33 percent, followed by Sen. Grace Poe with 22 percent and Roxas with 20 percent.

Vice President Jejomar Binay was fourth with 18 percent and Sen. Miriam Defensor-Santiago placed fifth with two percent.

The survey was conducted from April 19 to 24.

Roxas said the last survey showed he was the only candidate who obtained improvement in poll ratings.

“We’re happy because what we’re seeing is a shift from the ground, a movement from the ground,” Roxas told journalists after a meeting with local officials in Laoag City.

He said 21 of 23 mayors in Ilocos Norte are supporting his candidacy.

“Our countrymen don’t want a candidate with a foul mouth and dirty hands. His mouth is as dirty as his hands,” he said, referring to Duterte.

Roxas said Duterte’s undeclared and unexplained bank deposits and other assets are considered ill-gotten under the Anti-Graft and Corrupt Practices Act.