A Pulse Asia survey commissioned by the Stratbase ADR Institute reveals that 79% of Filipinos want the Philippine government to collaborate with the United States amid ongoing tensions in the West Philippine Sea.
The survey conducted from Dec. 3 to 7 allowed respondents to choose three preferred countries or organizations for collaboration. Aside from the US, almost half selected Australia (43%) and Japan (42%) in the Asia-Pacific region.
Other choices included Canada (34%), United Kingdom (22%), European Union (17%), Russia (16%), and South Korea (15%). Only 10% suggested collaboration with China. The survey results were released during a forum organized by Stratbase, underscoring the public’s desire for strengthened alliances with countries supporting the Philippines against Chinese actions.
Respondents recommended measures for the government to assert its rights in the West Philippine Sea, including strengthening external defense capabilities (67%), reinforcing alliances through joint patrols and military exercises (56%), increasing military presence by repairing the BRP Sierra Madre (52%), and improving inter-agency cooperation in maritime security (52%).
A majority (52%) expressed confidence in the Marcos administration’s ability to protect the West Philippine Sea, while 10% disagreed, and 35% were ambivalent. Stratbase President Dindo Manhit highlighted the need to bolster alliances with the US, Australia, and Japan, given their continued support for the Philippines’ position and condemnation of Chinese actions.
Source: PhilNews24 | January 17, 2024
