MANILA – Controlling inflation remains the most urgent national concern for Filipinos as 2025 ends, followed closely by fighting graft and corruption and creating more jobs, according to a Pulse Asia survey conducted December 12-15, 2025, and released December 30.
The poll of 1,200 adults found:
- 59% cited controlling rising prices of basic goods as top priority (up from previous quarters).
- 48% prioritized fighting graft and corruption (influenced by the ongoing flood control scandal probe).
- Other key issues: Increasing workers’ pay, reducing poverty, and job creation.
These economic and governance worries dominate amid stable but low inflation (~1.9% average for 2025) and persistent perceptions of corruption eroding public services.
The results reflect year-end frustrations: Holiday spending pressures, job market slowdowns, and high-profile scandals fueling distrust.
Top Urgent National Concerns (December 2025 Pulse Asia):
| Rank | Concern | Percentage |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Controlling inflation/prices | 59% |
| 2 | Fighting graft & corruption | 48% |
| 3-5 | Workers’ pay, poverty reduction, jobs | ~40-30% |
As 2026 begins, these priorities signal clear public demands for economic relief and cleaner governance.