With the theme “The Accountability Revolution – Why Filipinos Demand Proof Before Full Trust,” the study identifies transparency, competence, and ethical behavior as the pillars on which public trust hinges.
The study surveyed 1,800 Filipinos and conducted focus groups, examining trust in government, business, media, religious institutions, NGOs, and the academe. It found that trust, once extended, is quickly re-evaluated if expectations are unmet.
(Click on link at the end of this story to download PDF file showing key results of the study.)
“Trust is not built on promises but on proof,” EON Group co-founder and chair Junie del Mundo said. “We are witnessing an accountability revolution, where Filipinos expect institutions to act with integrity and deliver results.”
Government: local vs. national trust
Trust in local government remains robust, with a high rating of 95.4 percent, reflecting strong local community relations. National institutions show lower trust levels, with the Office of the President at 82.3 percent and Congress at 81.6 percent. According to the study, this cautious trust in national government is driven by public expectations for transparency and consistent governance.
Business: trust varies by industry
In business, drug and medicine manufacturers received the highest trust rating at 93.9 percent, while real estate developers scored lower at 79.6 percent. Ethical practices, product quality, and sustainability were key trust drivers, indicating that Filipinos look for socially responsible and reliable businesses.
Media: traditional outlets vs. social media
Television leads in trust among media platforms, scoring 93.6 percent, with Filipinos valuing traditional outlets for reliable, evidence-based reporting. However, social media faces distrust, with misinformation and lack of regulation cited as primary concerns, underscoring a strong demand for fact-checking and ethical standards in digital spaces.
Religious institutions: cultural influence
Religious institutions continue to enjoy substantial trust, with the Roman Catholic Church rated at 92.4 percent. However, trust in religious groups varies by affiliation, reflecting nuanced perceptions of their community involvement and alignment with public interests.
NGOs: need for awareness and distinction
The study highlights a knowledge gap in understanding NGOs, with many Filipinos unable to distinguish these entities from government programs. Among those familiar with NGOs, perceived helpfulness, especially in education and medical assistance, strengthens trust.
Accountability as trust’s foundation
The Philippine Trust Study emphasizes that trust in institutions must be earned through actions that align with three core values: being known, good, and consistent.
The Philippine Trust Study suggests that institutions focusing on transparency, competence, and ethical actions will build lasting trust in a more discerning Filipino public.
