60% of Filipinos satisfied with gov't WPS initiatives

A recent Social Weather Stations (SWS) survey commissioned by Stratbase revealed that 60% of Filipinos believe the government's efforts, such as joint patrols and military exercises with allies, are sufficient in addressing West Philippine Sea (WPS) issues.

The survey, conducted from June 23 to July 1, 2024, with 1,500 respondents nationwide, also found that 72% of Filipinos agree that the Philippine government should form alliances with other countries to defend its territorial and economic rights in the WPS.

Additionally, the survey indicated that most Filipinos believe the government is taking sufficient actions to protect Filipino fishermen in the WPS (57%) and to strengthen the Philippines' military capabilities, particularly the Navy (56%).

These findings come amidst the Philippines conducting several joint patrols with the US, Australia, Japan, and France in the WPS, in response to assertive actions by Chinese forces in the region.

The Philippine Navy is also exploring the possibility of a rotation and reprovision mission to Ayungin Shoal as part of a Multilateral Maritime Cooperative Activity (MMCA) with partner nations.