THE UNIVERSITY OF Mindanao–Institute of Popular Opinion conducted an online survey from Jan. 24 to Feb. 16, 2025, targeting 1,200 Davaoeños from the three districts of the city to describe their opinion about the party list system and their insights in ways how to retain its relevance in the political system in the Philippines.
Since the survey was done online via sponsored ads on three Meta platforms (Facebook, Messenger, and Instagram), IPO relied heavily on online, pre-defined, targeted social media users who met the inclusion criteria and are targeted for contact within the defined geographical radius. Respondents were defined to be at least 18 years old, have valid/active email addresses, and are registered voters. The survey was done at a 95% confidence level and a 3% margin of error. Two (2) questions were asked to cover issues such as the extent of the issues on the party list system in the country and the desired changes to make the party list system more relevant today.
A notable 79.2% of respondents expressed familiarity with the party-list system, and 77.1% stated that they had voted for a party-list group in the last election. Nevertheless, only a small portion of the respondents recognize the potential and benefits of the party-list system. About 60.4% believed that it provides representation for marginalized sectors, 58.3% acknowledged that it allows ordinary citizens to serve the public, and 56.3% appreciated its role in encouraging diversity in government representation.
On the other hand, 91.7% of respondents believed that the system has been corrupted and abused. The same percentage also asserted that traditional politicians dominate party-list seats (91.7%), turning what was intended as an advocacy platform into a mere political tool (91.7%). Additionally, 89.6% of respondents claimed that most party-list representatives do not genuinely represent the interests of marginalized sectors.
Furthermore, 85.4% maintained that party-list groups remain under the control of the rich and powerful, while 79.2% argued that these groups lack a clear political program. Additionally, 77.1% of the respondents believe that the services and benefits provided by party-list representatives are not evident. Additionally, 72.9% claimed that these groups do not truly represent the public interest. Also, 70.8% disagreed that the projects and programs implemented by party-list groups are visible and impactful. Moreover, 64.6% believed that the accomplishments of party-list representatives have little to no impact on their communities, while an equal percentage (64.6%) felt that these representatives fail to advance the welfare of the marginalized sectors they claim to represent.
The respondents were also asked about the changes they wish to implement to make the party-list system more relevant in the Philippines today.
A unanimous 100% of respondents emphasized the need for greater transparency in party-list operations and funding. As well as, a thorough review and update of qualifications to ensure that only genuine sectoral representatives can participate. 95.8% urged efforts to educate voters about the true purpose of the party-list system and its candidates. Furthermore, 93.8% expressed a desire to limit the influence of large, well-funded groups within the system, while 91.7% called for the enforcement of stricter regulations to prevent political dynasties from taking advantage of the system.
Another 91.7% recommended providing additional support for legitimate grassroots parties to strengthen their presence and influence. Lastly, 72.9% proposed abolishing the party-list system entirely in favor of more effective political reforms.
