CEBU CITY, Philippines – As the 2025 elections draw closer, Acting Cebu City Mayor Raymond Alvin Garcia has emerged as the leading candidate in the latest survey conducted by the RP-Mission and Development Foundation, Inc. (RPMD).
The survey, which simulated a competitive 5-way mayoral race in Cebu City, reveals Garcia’s commanding 39% voter backing, placing him well ahead of his rivals.
In its official Facebook page, which has over 1.4 million likes, the RPMD revealed that their latest survey was conducted from July 1-10, 2024, with 1,200 adult respondents from Cebu City. With a margin of error of 3% and a confidence level of 95%, the survey captures the current pulse of voter sentiment in the city.
As a key project of RPMD, the “Boses ng Bayan” initiative, which includes this survey, has been designed to rigorously assess the political landscape across the Philippines.
Dr. Paul Martinez, Global Affairs Analyst and Executive Director of RPMD, emphasized the importance of this program in fostering democratic engagement and enhancing citizens’ involvement in the political process.
In the latest survey, Garcia’s support increased to 39%, up from the 35% in a previous 3-way contest.
Suspended Mayor Michael Rama trailed significantly with 17%, followed by ABC President Franklyn Ong with 13%, City Councilor Nestor Archival, Sr. with 10%, and former Customs Commissioner Yogi Ruiz with 6%.
Notably, 15% remain undecided, although trends suggest a political shift towards Garcia as the election approaches.
This is the second survey conducted by the same institution on the upcoming mayoralty race. Last June, RPMD released its survey of respondents in Cebu City from March 18-23, which also had Garcia in the lead with 35%, Rama with 20% and Ruiz, also at 6%.
As the 2025 mayoral race in Cebu City heats up, Garcia’s strong showing in the two RPMD surveys solidifies his position as the frontrunner. With the election just around the corner, all eyes will be on how the remaining undecided voters cast their votes.