86% of Filipinos support partnerships with allies to defend West PH Sea 

Eighty-six percent of Filipinos support the Philippines working with like-minded countries to help defend the West Philippine Sea, according to a Pulse Asia survey released on June 10. 

The survey found that most Filipinos agreed that the country should cooperate with nations such as the United States, Japan, Australia, Canada, and South Korea in protecting Philippine interests in the disputed waters in accordance with the 2016 Arbitral Ruling. 

Pulse Asia surveyed 1,500 respondents nationwide from May 3 to 7, 2026, to measure public opinion on partnerships related to the West Philippine Sea. 

Only 3% of respondents disagreed with the proposal.  11% said they could not determine whether they agreed or disagreed. 

Mindanao recorded the highest level of support at 91%, and the National Capital Region (NCR) followed with 90% support. 

The survey also asked respondents to identify countries or organizations that the Philippines should work with in defending the West Philippine Sea. 

The United States received the highest support at 84%. Japan ranked second with 67%; Australia followed with 57%; and South Korea obtained 44% support. 

The survey showed that support for cooperation with the United States increased by two percentage points compared with a similar survey conducted in December 2025. 

Support for Japan also increased by three percentage points from the previous survey. 

Stratbase Institute President and Chief Executive Officer Victor Andres Manhit said the results reflected Filipinos’ recognition of the importance of international partnerships in protecting national interests. 

“Filipinos clearly see that upholding the 2016 arbitral award and strengthening cooperation with like-minded nations are essential components of preserving our independence in the 21st century,” Manhit said. 

He added that the country must continue protecting the gains secured through the arbitral ruling.  

“As we mark a decade of our victory at The Hague, we must do our part in defending our hard-won triumph so that future generations inherit a nation that is free, secure and respected in the international community,” Manhit said. 

The survey results were released ahead of Philippine Independence Day and the 10th anniversary of the 2016 Arbitral Ruling, which invalidated China’s sweeping claims in the South China Sea and affirmed the Philippines’ maritime rights under international law.