Robredo's camp believes passion will prove poll numbers wrong

They came even before the sun rose for a political rally that would not officially start until well after the sun had set. By mid-morning, they were joined by tens of thousands more, filling the wide streets at the heart of Makati city, the Philippines’ financial hub.

- Raul Dancel Philippines Correspondent In Manila

All wearing something pink, they drove, cycled and walked. They came with their children, their dogs.

This is the level of devotion that supporters of Vice-President Leni Robredo believe will win her the Philippine presidency tomorrow, despite what opinion polls say.

Ms Robredo, 57, a former human rights lawyer, trails Mr Ferdinand Marcos Jr, 64, the son and namesake of the late dictator, by more than 30 percentage points in opinion polls. That does not bother Dr Mia Ann Felicisimo, 56, a paediatrician. “Those are just numbers. Look around you. Does this look like she’s that far behind?” she said, gesturing at the throng.

Dr Felicisimo had driven to Makati with her daughter and son, parked at a mall and made her way in 34 deg C heat to find the closest spot she could get to the main stage where Ms Robredo was expected to speak at 8pm yesterday.

Around her, as in past rallies for Ms Robredo, the atmosphere was festive and communal. “It’s like they’re going to a basketball game,” one reporter tweeted.