73% of Filipinos want gov't to assert WPS rights

A recent Pulse Asia survey conducted in June revealed that a significant 73% of Filipinos want the government to persist in asserting the Philippines' rights in the West Philippine Sea (WPS).

The survey, presented by Stratbase ADR Institute president Professor Victor Andres 'Dindo' Manhit, coincides with the anniversary of the Philippines' 2016 arbitral victory against China.

Regionally, the National Capital Region (NCR) showed the highest agreement at 83%, followed by Balance Luzon at 82%, while the Visayas and Mindanao recorded 60% and 59% respectively.

Only a small fraction, 7%, disagreed with the government's stance on the WPS, with 18% remaining undecided.

When asked about measures to defend these rights, 65% of respondents supported the modernization of the Armed Forces of the Philippines and the Philippine Coast Guard to acquire necessary assets.

Furthermore, 51% of Filipinos believe the administration should strengthen alliances and partnerships through joint patrols and military exercises with allied nations.