The number of Filipinos reporting a worsened quality of life over the past year rose in the fourth quarter survey by Social Weather Stations (SWS). From 32 percent in September, it climbed to 36 percent in the poll conducted November 24 to 30. This marks a record low for the current administration.
The latest Social Weather Stations (SWS) survey shows a continued rise in Filipinos reporting a decline in their quality of life over the past 12 months. In the fourth quarter poll, conducted from November 24 to 30, 36 percent of respondents said their lives had worsened, up from 32 percent in September. This compares to 23 percent at the end of 2024.
Meanwhile, 29 percent reported improvements, nearly unchanged from 30 percent in the previous survey. Another 34 percent said their situation stayed the same, down from 38 percent. The "net gainers" score, calculated as the rounded difference between those reporting gains and losses, fell to -7 from -2 in September. SWS data indicates this is the lowest under the current administration.
Regionally, the score was highest in Mindanao at +2, unchanged from before. Balance Luzon scored -7, down from -4; Metro Manila -12 from -8; and the Visayas -14 from +1. Declines also occurred across urban and rural areas, among older age groups, and most education levels.
The survey involved 1,200 respondents with a margin of error of plus or minus 3 percent. These findings highlight shifting public perceptions amid ongoing challenges in the Philippines.
