Vice President Sara Duterte expressed surprise over the recent rise in her public approval and trust ratings, despite what she described as a barrage of political attacks. According to Duterte, she did not expect such results due to the relentless smear campaigns against her. However, the latest “Ulat ng Bayan” survey from Pulse Asia Research, released last week, showed a seven-point increase in her approval rating—from 52% in January to 59% in February. The vice president also took aim at her political rivals, saying they fail to understand that her base of supporters would not automatically shift to Speaker Martin Romualdez even if he decides to run for president in 2028. Duterte was impeached by the House of Representatives on February 5 and is set to face an impeachment trial before the Senate this July. Read Full Story