FERDINAND “BONGBONG” R. MARCOS, JR. -- REUTERS

THE SON and namesake of the late dictator Ferdinand E. Marcos was the most preferred candidate for president, according to a poll by the Social Weather Stations (SWS).

The poll, commissioned by think tank Stratbase ADR Institute, Inc. showed that 47% of Filipinos would vote for former Senator Ferdinand “Bongbong” R. Marcos, Jr. if the elections were held today, the think tank posted on Facebook on Monday.

Vice-President Maria Leonor “Leni” G. Robredo was far behind him with 18%. Manila Mayor Francisco M. Domagoso came in third with 13%, followed by boxing champion and Senator Emmanuel “Manny” D. Pacquiao with 9%, it said.

Senators Panfilo M. Lacson and Ronald M. Dela Rosa were tied in fifth place with 5% each.

Meanwhile, Senate President Vicente C. Sotto III was the top pick for vice-president, with 44% of Filipinos backing his candidacy. He was followed by Davao City Mayor Sara Duterte-Carpio with 25%.

Senator Francis “Kiko” N. Pangilinan and cardiologist Willie T. Ong were tied at No. 3 with 13% each, followed by Party-list Rep. Jose Livioko “Lito” Atienza, Jr. (3%).

Stratbase did not say how many Filipinos were interviewed for the Oct. 20-23 poll. It also did not say what the error margin was. — Kyle Aristophere T. Atienza