Pulse: Disapproval of Government’s Handling of Inflation Hits 73 Percent

The disapproval rating of the government’s handling of inflation has reached a staggering 73 percent, according to a recent survey conducted by Pulse Asia, a leading public opinion polling body in the Philippines.

This significant disapproval rating reflects the growing dissatisfaction among the public regarding the government’s efforts in addressing the issue.

Inflation is a critical economic indicator that affects the daily lives of people. It measures the rate at which the general level of prices for goods and services is rising and, in turn, eroding purchasing power. In recent times, inflation has become a cause for concern in many countries, including the Philippines.

The survey, which was conducted from December 3 to December 7 nationwide, revealed that Filipinos are increasingly feeling the impact of rising prices on their daily lives.

Basic commodities such as food, transportation, and utilities have become more expensive, putting a strain on the budgets of ordinary citizens. As a result, many are finding it difficult to make ends meet and are struggling to cope with the rising cost of living.

Controlling inflation faced a surge in disapproval, a notable increase from 56 percent recorded in a comparable survey conducted in September 2023.

Governmental measures to tackle the escalating costs of essential commodities saw a significant decline in approval, with only nine percent expressing support—a drop from the previous 16 percent.

Several other concerns were perceived as inadequately addressed by the government. Disapproval of efforts to increase workers’ pay rose from 24 percent to 36 percent, while combating graft and corruption experienced an uptick in disapproval from 23 percent to 33 percent.

Additionally, dissatisfaction with poverty reduction efforts increased from 31 percent to 39 percent, and addressing hunger witnessed a rise from 16 percent to 24 percent.

Among the 14 issues covered in the survey, the government garnered majority approval in eight areas.

Notably, there was a commendable 78 percent approval for the protection of overseas Filipino workers, up from 74 percent. Responding to the needs of calamity-affected areas secured 76 percent approval, an improvement from the previous 72 percent.

Efforts to halt environmental degradation garnered 62 percent approval, a notable increase from the prior 54 percent. Defending Philippine territory also saw an uptick in approval, rising from 59 percent to 61 percent.

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