MANILA, Jan. 13 -- The approval rating obtained by Philippine President Benigno S. Aquino III in the latest Pulse Asia Survey is an indication that Filipinos continue to support him, senior government officials said Monday.

Research institute Pulse Asia released on Monday the results of its survey conducted from Dec. 8 to 15 which showed a drop in Aquino's approval rating to 73 percent in December, from 79 percent in September.

Presidential Communication Operations Secretary Herminio Coloma, Jr., however, said the approval rating means that seven out of 10 Filipinos remain supportive of Aquino.

"The president and his cabinet are determined to continue and vigorously implement in 2014 the major programs of the Philippine Development Plan with a renewed sense of urgency and determination, " said Coloma.

Presidential spokesman Edwin Lacierda, for his part, said the latest survey indicates the Filipinos' continued belief in Aquino' s government despite the national crises he faced such as the siege in southern Philippines, the earthquake and typhoon Haiyan which struck central Philippines.

"The Filipino people witnessed how the president stood by them and displayed the firm and resolute leadership necessary for our country to overcome, to date, even the toughest hardships," said Lacierda.

He made an assurance that Aquino's government will continue to work with "greater zeal" to ensure the country's economic progress.