A strong majority of Filipinos believe the Philippine government should persist in asserting the country’s rights over the West Philippine Sea, according to a Pulse Asia survey released in time for the anniversary of the 2016 arbitral ruling that favored the Philippines.
The survey, conducted from June 26 to 30 and commissioned by the Stratbase ADR Institute, revealed that 73% of Filipinos support continued efforts to defend the country’s maritime claims. This sentiment is most pronounced in the National Capital Region, where 83% of respondents backed the government’s assertive stance, followed by Balance Luzon (82%), Visayas (60%), and Mindanao (59%).
Only 7% opposed the idea, while 18% remained undecided.
Stratbase ADR Institute president Prof. Victor Andres “Dindo” Manhit unveiled the survey results during a forum marking the Philippines’ historic legal victory against China at the Permanent Court of Arbitration in The Hague.
The poll also asked respondents which steps they believe the government should prioritize to protect Philippine maritime interests. Sixty-five percent cited the need to modernize the Armed Forces of the Philippines and the Philippine Coast Guard. More than half (51%) also called for stronger alliances through joint military exercises and patrols.
Meanwhile, 33% supported establishing more defense and security pacts with like-minded nations. A smaller portion of respondents emphasized accountability from national leaders (14%) and continued diplomatic engagement with China (12%).
