A new Pulse Asia survey found that 86 percent of Filipinos want the government to defend the West Philippine Sea by forming alliances with like-minded countries, in line with the 2016 arbitral award.
The survey, conducted from May 3 to May 7 and released on June 10, showed strong regional support. Mindanao recorded the highest approval at 91 percent, followed by Metro Manila at 90 percent. Stratbase Institute president Victor Andres “Dindo” Manhit said the results indicate Filipinos want the government to uphold the 2016 ruling through diplomacy, defense, and partnerships. Respondents favored working with the United States at 84 percent, Japan at 67 percent, Australia at 57 percent, Canada at 51 percent, and South Korea at 44 percent. The poll surveyed 1,500 people nationwide with a margin of error of plus or minus 2.5.
