8 out of 10 Filipinos prefer assertive candidates on West Philippine Sea issue

Eight out of ten Filipinos prefer candidates who support asserting the Philippines' rights against China's aggression in the West Philippine Sea, according to a recent Social Weather Stations (SWS) survey commissioned by Stratbase.

The poll revealed that 77% of respondents believe the government should strengthen alliances with other nations through joint patrols and military exercises to defend territorial and economic rights.

Conducted nationwide from February 15 to 19, the survey interviewed 1,800 registered voters across Metro Manila, Balance Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao.

The results were released on March 7 during a forum organized by Stratbase and Japan Foundation Manila.

Support for assertive candidates was highest in Metro Manila (87%) and lowest in Mindanao (67%), highlighting regional differences in voter priorities.