Marcos Calls for Unity: Philippines Between Hope and Trust Crisis into 2026

In the New Year, President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. addressed the Filipinos with a message that emphasized unity, trust, and shared responsibility. The appeal came at a time when the nation is grappling with profound challenges – political conflicts, massive allegations of corruption in infrastructure projects, and a fragmented society swinging between protests and internal discord.

The Year 2025 Recap: Scandals and Internal Strife

The past year left deep scars. Revelations about corruption allegations in flood control measures shook public trust. Changes in leadership positions in Congress and the presidential administration followed – some of the officials involved were themselves under suspicion of corruption. While Filipinos saw streets protesting against embezzlement, deep cracks in social cohesion also appeared. Factions formed, old alliances broke apart.

Poll numbers reflect these strains: Marcos ended 2025 with a 34 percent approval rating and a 47 percent disapproval – a clear sign of dissatisfaction. His former ally and now political rival, Vice President Sara Duterte, achieved a 56 percent approval rating, highlighting shifts in power.

The Tone of Hope: What Do the Numbers Show?

But not everything points to pessimism. According to a survey by the Social Weather Stations, 44 percent of Filipinos are optimistic about changes and improvements in their lives in 2026. This mood – the role that opinion research should play in a democracy – reveals a split: despite crises and scandals, a thread of hope persists among the population.

Marcos’ Vision: Bagong Pilipinas through Empathy and the Common Good

In his New Year’s address, Marcos described the new beginning as a time of self-reflection and transformation. He urged citizens to learn from mistakes and look forward. The central concept of his agenda – “Bagong Pilipinas” (New Philippines) – rests on three pillars: unity, compassion, and empathy as foundations of nation-building.

“A society thrives when its members choose compassion over indifference, service over self-interest, and hope over despair,” Marcos emphasized. His words aimed to bridge existing divides and appeal to a sense of community.

The Challenge: Turning Words into Action

Marcos’ message is clear, but implementation will be crucial. With a mistrust rate of 47 percent and the growing political influence of Sara Duterte, the government must not only preach unity but also demonstrate it. Clarifying corruption cases and restoring integrity in administration will be a litmus test for credible leadership.

The hope of 44 percent of the population for better days could be the catalyst for real change – or it could fade if concrete measures are lacking. The year 2026 will be decisive for the future of the Philippines and the trust of its citizens.