Metro Manila, Philippines— Filipinos are divided on the potential benefits of the controversial Maharlika Investment Fund (MIF) that now awaits President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s signature, according to a Social Weather Station (SWS) survey conducted in March.
The poll showed 51% of respondents said they expect little or no benefit from the MIF, while 56% expect much benefit from it.
There were also differing opinions on their level of confidence that the sovereign wealth fund will not become corrupt – with 31% saying they have a lot of confidence, 29% have little confidence, and 38% unsure.
The survey found that only 20% believe they were sufficiently informed about the MIF.
On the other hand, 22% said they have little knowledge about the fund, while the majority or 47% expressed they have almost or no knowledge about it at all.
SWS said the survey was conducted from March 26 to 29 through face-to-face interviews with 1,200 adults nationwide. Most respondents were from Metro Manila and the rest of Luzon.
The bill seeking to create the MIF was transmitted to Malacañang on Tuesday.
