Dingdong Dantes 12th in early 2028 Senate preference survey

Dingdong Dantes has unexpectedly entered the "Magic 12" of an early senatorial preference survey for the 2028 elections, despite having no announced plans to run for senator.

The actor and television host ranked 12th among 24 personalities in Tangere’s October 2026 survey, with a voter preference of 20.7%.

Leading the October rankings was Baste Duterte with 42.7%, followed by Grace Poe with 38.3%. 

Senator Raffy Tulfo was third at 36.5%. Actor-senator Robin Padilla, meanwhile, ranked fourth at 36.4%.

Dantes was not included in Tangere’s September survey, making his sudden appearance on the October list a surprise to many. 

Conducted from October 21 to 23, the survey used a mobile-based app and gathered responses from 2,400 participants across the Philippines.

Dantes’ unexpected inclusion drew mixed reactions online. While some found his appearance on the list amusing, others questioned the survey and whether popularity alone should be enough to qualify someone for a seat in the Senate.

“Kakanood nyo yan ng Master Cutter HAHAHA,” one netizen joked. 

“Hahaha bakit nanyan si Dingdong Dantes?” another commented.

“Nagulat ako kay Dingdong Dantes,” one user wrote. Another dismissed the survey, saying, “Laro ang pa survey.” 

Some netizens also questioned who participated in the survey and where the respondents came from. 

Others used Dantes’ ranking to weigh in on the broader debate over celebrity candidates, particularly whether name recognition should carry as much weight as experience in public service.

Despite making the list, the 46-year-old has not expressed any intention to seek a Senate seat in 2028. 

In previous interviews, he had said his focus remains on acting and television work. 

When asked about entering politics, he firmly answered, “Wala.” Dantes does, however, have a background in public service. 

He served as a commissioner-at-large of the National Youth Commission (NYC) from May 2014 to April 2016. 

His previous government appointment, however, does not necessarily mean he intends to pursue elected office.