Whether we like it or not, there is science behind the surveys. Surveys by credible outlets cannot be dismissed. In fact, campaign strategists and campaign teams base their moves on what surveys tell them.
They will not, of course, tell this fact to their supporters if a specific survey does not favor their candidate.
The recently-released Pulse Asia survey on presidential candidates tells us that numbers change from time to time. Leni Robredo’s supporters have reason to celebrate. Her rating increased by 9%. The camp of Bongbong Marcos cannot stay complacent despite the fact that his lead remains, and only few weeks are left before the election.
One thing becomes clearer now, and it is that the fight will eventually be between Leni and BBM. Isko Moreno has not dislodged Leni as a second placer. Day by day, the numbers do not seem to favor him. Although he and his supporters are still hopeful of many changes, after all one can change from yes to no or from no to yes in the blink of an eye.
Manny Pacquiao, on the other hand, already hinted the possibility of withdrawing. He is only waiting for signs. Ping Lacson intends to fight to the end. That’s characteristic of Ping. He wages lonely battles.
It may also be noted that BBM’s rating decreased by 4%. However, the remaining weeks will tell us how his team will fight to retain the lead.
It cannot be denied that Leni is on offense mode. We can see that she campaigns hard, and really very hard.
We all know that for a long time Leni was reluctant about running for the highest position of the land. Although it was logical for her to run for president being the most prominent opposition personality, she looked around, wanting to sense whether somebody would be willing to run for the genuine opposition. She ended all speculations with “Lalaban ako. Lalaban tayo.” That was the start of her journey.
The crucial question is whether the number of voters she can win --from now until the end of the campaign period-- to her side is enough for her to overtake BBM. Does she have enough time to overcome the lead of BBM? That has yet to be seen.
When Pichay ran for senator and lost, he said that if he had two more weeks to campaign, he could have won. The truth is that in war every second counts.
It is understandable that politicians distance themselves from Leni now or as of now. They are pragmatists. Their decision is based on winnability. But the moment Leni comes closer to BBM by say, 3 or 5 points, or will in fact get ahead of him in future surveys, there will be radical changes in the way things are going.
Things are getting more and more exciting. No group can relax their guard.