A recent Pulse Asia survey (commissioned by Stratbase Institute, conducted December 12-15, 2025, with 1,200 respondents and ±2.8% margin of error) reveals strong public preference for partnering with the United States to assert Philippine rights in the West Philippine Sea (WPS).
Respondents could select up to five countries/organizations they trust and want the Marcos administration to collaborate with.
Top Trusted Partners for WPS Protection
| Country/Organization | Percentage |
|---|---|
| United States | 82% |
| Japan | 64% |
| Canada | 58% |
| Australia | 51% |
| South Korea | 37% |
| United Kingdom | 33% |
| European Union | 27% |
| Taiwan | 12% |
| China | 11% |
| India | 4% |
The results underscore Filipino awareness of ongoing WPS tensions, favoring alliances with nations upholding international law (e.g., 2016 arbitral ruling) over China, despite its proximity.
Stratbase CEO Dindo Manhit noted: “Filipinos know who is violating our rights and who our friends are.” AFP spokesperson Rear Adm. Roy Vincent Trinidad called it a “strong morale booster.”
This aligns with strengthened PH-US ties (e.g., EDCA expansion, joint patrols) amid Chinese assertiveness in disputed waters.
A clear public mandate for rules-based partnerships in defending sovereignty.