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Weightlifter Vanessa Sarno secures Paris Olympics berth

Filipina weightlifter Vanessa Sarno during the 32nd Southeast Asian Games in Phnom Penh, Cambodia, May 15, 2023. POC-PSC Media/File

Vanessa Sarno became the third Filipino weightlifter to qualify for the Paris Olympics later this year, after her performance in the International Weightlifting Federation (IWF) World Cup in Phuket, Thailand on Sunday.

Sarno is one of the last athletes from the Philippine delegation to compete, seeing action in the women’s 71kg division. She topped Group B with a total lift of 245kg — 110kg in the snatch, and 135kg in the clean-and-jerk. She now joins John Ceniza and Elreen Ando as the Philippines’ weightlifting representatives in Paris.

After Group A of the 71kg weight class competed, Sarno’s output was enough to maintain her fifth place standing in the IWF Olympic Qualification Ranking, wherein only the top 10 weightlifters in each category can earn tickets to the Summer Games.

The IWF World Cup is one of two mandatory events in order to qualify for the Paris Olympics—the other being the 2023 IWF World Championships in Riyadh.

Meanwhile, another Filipina in Kristel Macrohon lifted a total of 233kg in Group B, good for sixth place.

Another Filipina lifter, Rosegie Ramos, has to wait to know her qualification status after ending up in 11th place after the World Cup.

Other Filipino athletes who have secured their places in the Paris Olympics are: pole vaulter EJ Obiena; boxers Eumir Marcial, Nesthy Petecio and Aira Villegas; and gymnasts Carlos Yulo and Aleah Finnegan.

Fuel prices up over P1/liter on Tuesday

A pump attendant fills a vehicle with fuel at a gasoline station in Bo. Pampanga, Davao City. Oil companies will reduce the prices of fuel products Tuesday. LEAN DAVAL JR
A pump attendant fills a vehicle with fuel at a gasoline station in Bo. Pampanga, Davao City. Oil companies will reduce the prices of fuel products Tuesday. LEAN DAVAL JR

Motorists will be met with fuel price hikes effective Tuesday, April 9, 2024, as companies announced another round of upward adjustments to mark the fourth straight week of increases for gasoline.

In separate advisories, Pilipinas Shell Petroleum Corp. and Seaoil Philippines Corp. said they will hike prices per liter of gasoline by P1.10, diesel by P1.55, and kerosene by P1.40 per liter.

Cleanfuel will implement the same adjustments, excluding kerosene which they do not carry.

The adjustments will take effect at 6 a.m. on Tuesday for all the firms, except for Cleanfuel which will hike prices at 4:01 p.m. the same day.

The latest announcements are in line with projections made by the Department of Energy’s (DOE) Oil Industry Management Bureau, citing fears of a wide conflict in the Middle East, Ukraine’s attack in Russia’s oil refineries, and an OPEC production cut, among others.

Firms last week hiked prices per liter of gasoline by P0.45, while reducing those of diesel by P0.60, and kerosene by P1.05.

Latest data available from the DOE indicate year-to-date adjustments of gasoline at P8.20, and diesel at P4.50 as of April 2, 2024.

Summer Adventure at Eden

As the warm sun rays kiss our skin and the days grow longer, summer is the perfect time to reconnect with nature and enjoy the great outdoors.

From leisurely walks to thrilling adventures, there’s a myriad of activities to suit every interest and skill level. Explore various summer nature activities at Eden Nature Park and Resort that will help you make the most of this beautiful season. Here are the top five summer activities at Eden Nature Park and Resort.

(1) Reward yourself by going on a hike or a nature walk. Capture the memories and immerse yourself in the beauty of the nature at Eden’s mountain trail. Or you may embark on a mesmerizing guided shuttle tour and explore the vibrant world of nature’s most beautiful creations at Eden’s Flower Garden.

(2) For those seeking a more thrilling experience, Eden offers aerial adventure rides such as Skyrider, Skycycle, Skywheel, Skyswing and Skyloop. These high-flying attractions challenge you to conquer your fears while enjoying the exhilaration of soaring through the air. Zip from one platform to another, Eden brings back its iconic Indiana Jones where kids will feel a sense of accomplishment and an unmatched adrenaline rush.

(3) Eden also offers a variety of outdoor activities to enjoy during the day. Pack a picnic and spend the afternoon lounging on the grass at the Gazebo while taking in the warm sun and stunning view of Davao City and Davao Gulf.

(4) There’s no better place to beat the heat than a refreshing escape at Eden’s swimming pool. A dip in the icy-cool pool offers a perfect blend of fun, relaxation, and a refreshing escape from the summer heat.


(5) Summer is the perfect time to indulge in a delightful and refreshing dessert. Go and grab a scoop of Eden’s signature ice cream. Available at the resort’s Vista Restaurant, you may choose from the unique and local flavors – Tableya and Durian.

Eden offers an enriching experience for those seeking to connect with nature while enjoying summer. Book for Lunch Buffet at Php 900.00 or Plated Snack at Php 400.00. Rates are inclusive of entrance fees and access to Eden Fields.

For booking and inquiries, message or call the Sales and Reservations Office at 0918-9307590 or 0917-1113336.

Quiboloy affirms he is not in hiding, enumerates conditions in facing raps

Pastor Apollo C. Quiboloy gestures during his Powerline television program. The legal team of Quiboloy and the top officials of Kingdom of Jesus Christ (KJC) is firmed that they were maliciously accused after they were charged with sex trafficking case by a US federal grand jury. Photo from Pastor Quiboloy's Facebook page

Pastor Apollo Quiboloy, founder of the Kingdom of Jesus Christ (KOJC), affirmed in an audio recording released on Saturday, that he is not hiding and is willing to face the charges if his conditions are followed.

“Ako ay hindi nagtatago sa kasong ito. Kayang kaya kong harapin yan. Kaya kong harapin sa America kung dadaan lang sila sa tamang proseso. Ito pang sa ating sariling bansa? Naging complicated ito sapagkat lahat ng ginagawa nila ay patibong. Bakit ginawa nilang bailable sa Davao? Para lumitaw at pumunta ako tapos naghihintay yung sergeant-at-arms na may warrant of arrest at dadalhin ako sa Manila at yan ang end game. Extraordinary rendition pa rin at babagsak pa rin ako sa kamay ng mga puti (American authorities). Gustuhin ko man o hindi,” Quiboloy said.

The evangelist claimed everything that happened is just a trap for the American authorities to get him and when that happens an extraordinary rendition will take place.

This developed after the National Bureau of Investigation-Davao (NBI-Davao) served the warrants of arrest to Quiboloy’s co-accused namely Barangay Tamayong chairman Cresente Canada and four others who surrendered to the NBI-Davao office last week namely Pauleen Canada, Sylvia Cemane, Jackielyn Roy and Ingrid Canada.

This is concerning the warrant of arrest issued by Regional Trial Court branch 12 of Davao City under Judge Dante Baguio against Quiboloy, and five others on Tuesday over child abuse charges.

The five accused were released after posting bail on Wednesday and Thursday.

Quiboloy said he is preserving himself so as not to fall into the trap allegedly set by the American authorities.

“Iniingatan ako ng Ama na hindi ako pupunta sa patibong ng tao para mangyari ang kanilang gustong gawin sa akin na gusto nila akong bawian ng buhay sapagkat akoy hadlang sa kanilang mga plano,” he said.

Quiboloy cites conditions for him to appear and face the charges. He wanted a guarantee that the American authorities would not interfere with his case in the Philippines; a guarantee that the Federal Bureau Investigation (FBI), Central Intelligence Agency (CIA), and the US embassy would not interfere; a guarantee from President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., Justice Secretary Jesus Remulla, Philippine National Police (PNP) head General Rommel Marbil, the NBI, and the Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG).

He also emphasized the guarantee that there will be no extraordinary rendition.

He also underscored that these guarantees should be in written form.

“Kung hindi ninyo mabibigay sa akin in written form ang mga conditions na ito mula sa Office of the President, DOJ, PNP, NBI, and CIDG hindi ninyo makikita ang pagmumukha ko. Kung ako ima-manhunt ninyo tulad ng sinasabi ninyo na para bang ako ay talagang kriminal, hindi naman ako drug lord at hindi ako sumisinghot ng drugs at itong kasong lahat na puro accusations at ginawa ninyong totoo, you tried me by publicity kasi wala kayong laban sa korte, hindi kayo patas makipaglaban,” Quiboloy said.

AAGI launches BAIC brand of SUVs and crossovers at MIAS 2024

Multi-brand automotive distributor United Asia Automotive Group Inc. (UAAGI) formally launched its newest brand, BAIC, to a jam-packed audience at the Manila International Auto Show (MIAS) 2024, which opened Thursday, April 4, at the World Trade Center in Pasay City.

Adding to its growing portfolio of global auto brands, the rapidly diversifying automotive distributor unveiled BAIC’s powerful lineup of boldly styled SUVs and crossovers to tens of thousands of attendees on the annual trade show’s opening day.

Sharing the spotlight at the BAIC Colonnade are the ruggedly handsome B40 Ragnar, the smooth and refined B60 Beaumont, the luxurious yet highly capable B80 Wagon—all of which are true body-on-frame 4×4 SUVs—as well as the X55 Verve and the X7 Grandeza crossovers.

The B40 and B60 are turbo-diesel-powered (with B60 being a diesel hybrid), while the B80, X55 and X7 are all petrol-powered (twin-turbo 3.0-liter V6 for the B80).
X55 Verve

The eye-catching X55 Verve is BAIC’s contender in the highly competitive compact crossover segment. With the X55 Verve, BAIC is shaking up the segment with class-leading features in a noticeably big and handsome package. Equipped with a complete suite of ADAS features including traffic jam assist and automatic parking assist, as well as hands-free power tailgate, and most importantly, 188 hp and 305 Nm of torque from an award-winning engine that is proud to be one of the most efficient in the market. The X55 Verve retails at ₱1,348,000.
X7 Grandeza

The show-stopping X7 Grandeza builds on the merits of the X55 Verve, especially the award-winning powertrain, and adds exquisitely luxurious appointments in an even larger and more spacious cabin. With the X7 Grandeza, you are provided with first-class accommodations, as you are pampered in heated and ventilated ottoman seats with a massage function, that are larger and more comfortable than the European models they were benchmarked on. A full host of ADAS and infotainment features that would be expected from a luxury car are also present in the X7 Grandeza, which is positioned as the most luxurious crossover available in its segment today and is priced at ₱1,648,000.

B40 Ragnar

BAIC’s Series 40 Ragnar SUV embodies a timelessly tough design and true off-road capability. Confidently exploring off-road trails in full comfort with your crew, the B40 Ragnar can take you where you want to go with a 2.0L Aucan turbo diesel engine with 380 Nm of torque coupled to an 8 speed ZF transmission and a BorgWarner four-wheel drive system.

Memories of your journey are instantly recorded by the built-in camera, mounted on the digital rear view mirror. Take out the removable roof panels and take in the beauty of the outdoors when you go on your adventures with the B40 Ragnar SUV which retails at P2,368,000.

B80 Wagon
Equipped with a 3.0L twin-turbo petrol engine producing 280 hp and 420 Nm of torque, mounted to a ZF transmission and electronic four-wheel drive system, the B80 Wagon can take you where you want to go quickly, powerfully, and in full luxury. With a class-leading 39-degree approach angle, 25-degree ramp angle, and 33-degree departure angle, fear is not part of the B80 Wagon’s vocabulary.

And of course, as a true luxury SUV, this BAIC model envelopes you in a Nappa leather interior and surrounds you with a powerful sound system with built-in subwoofer. The B80 Wagon’s iconic and imposing design is a nod to BAIC’s history of producing military-grade vehicles. The striking B80 Wagon retails at P4,398,000.

B60 Beaumont
Measuring more than five meters long, the 7-seater B60 Beaumont showcases all of the latest BAIC technologies in a tough and massive, beautifully sculpted body. The B60 Beaumont will be the first in the market to have a 2.0L diesel hybrid powertrain mated to an 8-speed automatic transmission. This true SUV also features 9 drive modes and a full array of ADAS features, to ensure optimal performance on all kinds of terrain.

The interior appointments are a feast for the senses with features such as a four-screen infotainment integration, 10.25” digital instrument cluster, 12.8” infotainment screen, smartphone mirroring, wireless charging, digital rear view mirror with integrated recording camera, WIFI hotspot, 220V power supply, 540 degree panoramic and undercarriage camera, and all topped off with a panoramic electric sunroof. For audiophiles, the B60 Beaumont will definitely not disappoint, with its 12+1 Infinity speaker system, and active noise cancelling. The B60 Beaumont is offered at a retail price of P3,188,000

“With BAIC, we satisfy the needs of Filipinos who relish exploration, venturing into the great outdoors, and forging new trails,” UAAGI Managing Director Froilan Dytianquin said at the brand’s exhibit opening.

“Today, we proudly declare that BAIC Philippines sets the standard for ruggedness, robustness, modernity, and style in SUVs, catering perfectly to the adventurous spirit of the Filipino,” he added.

Setting the BAIC display apart at MIAS is the unique UAAGI Performance Center, located at the front of the World Trade Center, and which is the venue of a host of special, challenging driving exhibitions that will showcase the capabilities of the full range of BAIC models which the public can experience firsthand.

Further strengthening the drawing power of BAIC at the show is the announcement of the multi-talented superstar, BAIC’s new brand ambassador, Ian Veneracion.

As a passionate outdoorsman who thrives on adrenaline-fueled activities such as paragliding, paramotoring, and motorcycling, Ian Veneracion embodies the ruggedness and daring spirit of BAIC vehicles. His adventurous pursuits reflect the brand’s innovative approach, as he excels not only as an actor and musician but also as a licensed pilot, constantly pushing boundaries and exploring new horizons.

He will be gracing the BAIC Colonnade with a special performance on Saturday, April 6, at 4:00 pm.

Attendees are also in for a treat as the brand unveils MIAS-exclusive packages and freebies for reservations and purchases.

Each BAIC model comes with a comprehensive warranty lasting 5 years or 150,000 km (whichever comes first), providing reliable coverage and support throughout the customers’ ownership experience. Additionally, BAIC is poised to bring in even more SUV models later this year.

UAAGI is the group behind the commercial vehicle brand Foton and more recently, Chery and Lynk & Co. UAAGI steered Foton to a first-for-a-Chinese brand Top 10 position in total Philippine vehicle sales — overtaking more established brands in the process.

All BAIC models are made in the company’s world-class state-of-the-art fully robotized plants in Shunyi, Beijing.

Don’t miss the BAIC Colonnade at the Manila International Auto Show (MIAS), which runs from April 4-7 simultaneously at the World Trade Center and at the SMX Convention Center in Pasay City.

The BAIC dealership and service network will be announced soon. For more info, visit BAIC Philippines’ Facebook and @baicph on Instagram.

NBI-Davao vows to continue manhunt vs. Pastor Quiboloy

National Bureau of Investigation 11 (NBI 11) director lawyer Archie Albao bares that Jackielyn Roy and Ingrid Canada, both co-accused of Pastor Apollo Quiboloy in the child abuse case, voluntarily surrendered at the NBI 11 office on Thursday morning. Albao said warrant of arrest were also served by the authorities at the identified properties of Kingdom of Jesus Christ at Tamayong Prayer Mountain in Calinan, Davao City; in Purok 2, Brgy. Caliclic, Babak District, Island Garden City of Samal (IGaCoS); and at Jose Maria College along C.P. Garcia Highway. LEAN DAVAL JR

An official of the National Bureau of Investigation-Davao (NBI-Davao) vowed they will continue the manhunt against Pastor Apollo Quiboloy, founder of the Kingdom of Jesus Christ (KOJC) until they arrest him.

“Walang timeline o limit sa paghahanap sa kanya. Tuloy tuloy ito until such time na madakpan siya or mu-surrender siya,” Lawyer Arcelito Albao, director of NBI-Davao, told Edge Davao.

The NBI-Davao served the Warrant of Arrest against Quiboloy in the KOJC compound in Davao City and at the Island Garden City of Samal (IGaCoS) on Wednesday, but failed to find the evangelist.

The arrest was in relation to the warrant of arrest issued by Regional Trial Court branch 12 of Davao City under Judge Dante Baguio against Quiboloy, and five others on Tuesday.

Barangay Tamayong chairman Cresente Canada on Wednesday was arrested in Barangay Tamayong, Calinan District, Davao City in a joint operation by Police Regional Office 11 (PRO 11), Davao City Police Office (DCPO) and the NBI-Davao over child abuse charges.

The two other co-accused, Pauleen Canada and Sylvia Cemane, voluntarily surrendered at the NBI-Davao headquarters on Wednesday afternoon and on Thursday, Jackielyn Roy and Ingrid Canada surrendered at NBI-Davao also.

The five accused were released after posting bail on Wednesday and Thursday.

Quiboloy is facing charges under Section 5(b) of Republic Act 7610 or the Special Protection of Children Against Abuse, Exploitation, and Discrimination Act and under Section 10(a) of the same act with the bail set at P180,000 for sexual assault and P80,000 for maltreatment.

The evangelist and the other five co-accused are also facing Qualified Human Trafficking charges under Section 4(a) of Republic Act No. 9208, as amended before a Pasig court.

Rep. Pulong provides aid to Muslim communities

Rodrigo “Rigo” Duterte II represents his father, First Congressional District Representative Paolo “Pulong” Duterte, during the distribution of assistance to almost 30 Muslim communities under the first district in observance of the Holy Month of Ramadan.
Rodrigo “Rigo” Duterte II represents his father, First Congressional District Representative Paolo “Pulong” Duterte, during the distribution of assistance to almost 30 Muslim communities under the first district in observance of the Holy Month of Ramadan.

Almost 30 Muslim communities under the First District of Davao City received assistance on Friday from the office of First Congressional District Representative Paolo “Pulong” Duterte in observance of the Holy Month of Ramadan.

Represented by his son, Rodrigo “Rigo” Duterte II, the First Congressional District Office distributed 576 sacks of rice and cash aid to beneficiaries from April 4 (Thursday) to April 5 (Friday).

There are about 1,000 members from Tausog, Iranun, Maguindanao, and Maranao, among other tribes, who will benefit from the assistance.

“Daghang salamat Congressman Pulong. Amoa ning i-apud-apod sa 100 kapin ka pamilya nga among sakop aron ang tanan makakaon,” said Imam Jun-Jun Pandadagan of San Rafael Mosque.

Imam Noli Distansya of the Datu Loho Madrasato Al-Islamim also expressed thanks to Rep. Pulong.

He also vowed to split the assistance to more than 200 families in their area so everyone would have a fair share of sustenance in the holy month.

Masjid Jamiun Nur’s Imam Ismael Tahir, who also has over 200 members in their village in Bangkal, Davao City.

Tahir said Rep. Pulong has always been supportive to the Muslim community, especially during Ramadan.

Meanwhile. Imam Emran Maongco, from a Muslim Village in Bankerohan, underscored the significance of Ramadan.

According to him, Ramadan is a celebration for them to grow spiritually and build a stronger relationship with Allah while Eidul Fitr is a thanksgiving celebration to Allah and marks the end of the month-long fast.

The lawmaker has instructed the assistance distribution to Muslim communities during Ramadan, respecting and supporting them in this holy month, which started last month and will end on April 10, 2024.

Rep. Pulong said Ramadan is the time for deep reflection, prayer, and contemplation.

On behalf of his father, Rigo interacted with Muslim leaders and members.

He expressed support and aligned himself with its efforts to achieve a common objective of constructing a society that embraces diversity and inclusivity.

Rigo did not forget to thank them for their support to the Duterte family.

Kap. Omar describes Rep. Pulong as a “great man” he aspires to be

Rodrigo
Rodrigo "Rigo" Duterte II (rightmost) joins his father, Davao City First District Paolo "Pulong" Duterte (center), and elder brother Omar (leftmost) in a boodle fight during a gathering in Brgy. 5-A Bankerohan, Davao City.

Barangay Captain Omar Duterte of Buhangin District described his father, Davao City First District Representative Paolo “Pulong” Duterte, as a great man that he aspires to be.

Omar shared this through his birthday message for his father last month on his Facebook page.

“Happy birthday to the man who always sees the greatness within people and has always put the betterment of society and his constituents above all. Truly a great man I aspire to be. Happy Birthday pa!” he said.

Omar said that he will sincerely serve his constituents like his father such as assisting indigent students to receive educational cash assistance from the City Social Welfare and Development Office (CSWDO). He said this program is one of his priorities in his barangay.

During his oath-taking as elected Barangay Captain of Buhangin in November last year, Omar said he had asked for advice and guidance from his father in his journey as a public servant.

THINK ON THESE: Cold water versus hot weather

My niece, Meryl E. Tacio-Lapinig, posted on her social media an “information” about discouraging cold water during this time of hot weather. “At 40 degrees, if you drink ice water in an instant, the micro blood vessels could explode,” it said.

There was a case of a friend who “went into the house to wash his feet with cold water. Then, his eyes could not see clearly, and he passed out. Only the ears could hear the sound.”

The person who first posted the “information” was told by a “doctor friend”: “The temperature in some places has reached 38 degrees C or higher, but the temperature of the body should be higher. The danger is not just with drinking cold water. The same danger may occur even with washing hands/face/feet. You must not subject any part of the hot body to temperature shock with cold water.”

The same “doctor friend” further said: “You need about 30 minutes to allow the body to cool down and adjust to the indoor temperature. Drink natural temperature water/lukewarm water of around 34 to 36 degrees C.”

There was also the case of “a very strong man” whom the “doctor friend” examined a few years earlier. He met the man again and he was surprised to find that he had a stroke. This was what the man said to the doctor:

“Recently, on a hot day, upon returning home, in order to quickly cool off from the heat, I immediately took a cold shower. I felt that I could not move my jaws properly. I immediately called an ambulance to send me to the hospital. That saved my life.”

Are those really true? So, I did some sleuthing.

It’s not true, said the Vera Files Fact Check. It has interviewed Dr. Jose Paciano Reyes, a neurologist and president of the Philippine Neurological Association to dispel the myth. Blood vessels, he said, “do not explode on exposure to cold.”

In fact, the opposite actually happens. As he explained it, “The physiologic response to cold exposure causes skin blood vessels to constrict to conserve heat.”

According to Dr. Reyes, the sudden immersion of the body in cold water can cause “cold shock” in which there is an immediate loss of breathing control, constriction of blood vessels, and an increase in blood pressure.

Cold water, when drunk or used in bathing, is “usually not a problem for healthy individuals,” pointed out Dr. Reyes. As a matter of fact, he added that it “has some benefits, including cooling down the body, preventing overheating and reducing inflammation.”

However, Dr. Reyes discouraged this kind of practice among those people with cardiac disease. He explained that “the increase in blood pressure and cardiac workload may increase the chances of a heart attack and stroke in susceptible individuals.”

The website, thequint.com, said drinking cold water as soon as you come indoors from the heat is not advisable but it’s not dangerous.

The article was written by Devina Buckshee and her source of information was Dr. Suranjit Chatterjee, senior consultant- internal medicine at Indraprastha Apollo Hospitals.

“Ideally you should not have cold water immediately in high temperatures of 42, 45 degrees as your body will not acclimatize to the cold – but this is not dangerous, no blood vessels will erupt,” the Indian doctor assured.

“Drinking ice cold water immediately may cause a sore throat or an irregular heartbeat for some time, but this is nothing alarming,” Dr. Chatterjee was quoted as saying.

So while it is not harmful, he said it is best to wait and rest a bit before we drink anything cold.

It’s not only in the Philippines or India that such incidents happen. In the United States, a certain Adam Schaub of Texas took to Facebook to caution people about the dangers of drinking cold water during extreme heat. This was in 2018.

The Weather Network reported that Schaub was “working out on a day when the thermostat read 37 degrees Celsius.” He took a break from what he was doing and drank ice cold water.

“In the truck, I drank some more cold water and very shortly started feeling strange,” he recalled. “I started seeing spots, my stomach got extremely nauseous and my hands and feet started tingling. I felt like I was going to throw up so I opened the truck door and the next thing I know I’m face first in the ground and my dad’s rolling me over and wiping off my face.”

American family physician Dr. Yvette Lu told Weather Network that it was “not typical for people to go into shock after drinking cold water on a hot day.”

“It’s always important to be careful when reading things on social media because we don’t know the full details of the story,” Dr. Lu cautioned.

According to Dr. Lu, falling over after drinking cold water in extreme heat is a rare occurrence. “In Schaub’s case, he may have been suffering from heat exhaustion, combined with the effects of a ‘brain freeze’ headache,” she explained.

VP Sara’s net satisfaction slightly goes up in December 2023: SWS

Vice President and Education Sara Duterte’s public satisfaction rating slightly goes up from 72 percent in September 2023 to 73 percent at the end of 2023, according to the latest survey of Social Weather Stations (SWS). LEAN DAVAL JR
Vice President and Education Sara Duterte’s public satisfaction rating slightly goes up from 72 percent in September 2023 to 73 percent at the end of 2023, according to the latest survey of Social Weather Stations (SWS). LEAN DAVAL JR

Vice President and Education Secretary Sara Duterte’s public satisfaction slightly gained at 73 percent at the end of 2023, according to the latest survey of Social Weather Stations (SWS).

The non-commissioned SWS survey, which was conducted on December 8 to 11, 2023, also revealed that 12 percent were dissatisfied with Duterte while 14 percent were undecided.

Duterte’s 73 percent public satisfaction rating is higher than her 72 percent rating in September 2023.

She also had a higher satisfaction percentage (61 percent) compared to other senior government officials polled. Senate President Juan Miguel Zubiri received 44 percent, Chief Justice Alexander Gesmundo rated 32 percent, and Speaker Martin Romualdez rated 28 percent.

According to SWS, Duterte’s net satisfaction rating was highest at 83 percent in Mindanao, followed by the Visayas at 60 percent, Luzon at 55 percent, and Metro Manila at 46 percent.

With an 81 percent public approval rating, she also received the highest rating from those who had only completed elementary school and no formal education.

She also gained a 72 percent public satisfaction rating among Junior High School graduates with some college education and college graduates with some or post-college education.

Duterte also got the highest public satisfaction rating from respondents aged 35 to 44 years at 78 percent, aged 25 to 34 (77 percent), 18 to 24 (74 percent) 55 and up (70 percent), and 45 to 54 (69 percent).

So far the vice president has not given any statement about the survey.