Massive Public Support for West Philippine Sea Transparency Policy
A new Pulse Asia survey, commissioned by the We Protect Our Seas Foundation, reveals strong public demand in the Philippines for continued transparency regarding the West Philippine Sea (WPS) and China’s coercive actions against Filipino vessels and fishermen. Conducted from September 27 to 30, 2025, the nationwide study shows that 94% of Filipinos believe the government should maintain its transparency policy and publicly expose Beijing’s activities in the WPS.
The poll’s release underscores a broad consensus across regions, urban and rural communities, and socioeconomic classes that openness strengthens national sovereignty and maritime rights. The high level of support signals public backing for government efforts to document and share information about confrontations at sea as part of a broader strategy to assert territorial claims vis-a-vis China.
Regional Variations in Support
While overall support remains overwhelming, the survey details some regional nuances. The National Capital Region (NCR) leads with 97% support, followed by Balance Luzon at 96% and Visayas at 93%. Mindanao records the lowest figure among regions at 89%, though this still reflects a strong majority in favor of transparency. Rural respondents register 95% support, slightly higher than urban respondents at 93%, suggesting that rural communities may perceive greater impact from WPS developments or place a premium on visible defense measures.
Socioeconomic Insights
Among socioeconomic groups, Class E shows the strongest backing for government transparency on WPS issues at 96%. Class D follows with 94%, and Class ABC registers 93%. These numbers illustrate a generally uniform appetite for open government communications across economic strata and emphasize the perceived value of public accountability when it comes to maritime security.
Public Trust in Security Institutions
The survey also sheds light on which government agencies the public trusts most for updates and incident reports related to the WPS. The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) emerges as the most trusted institution, cited by 41% of respondents as the most trustworthy source. The Navy ranks second at 19%, with the National Task Force for the West Philippine Sea (NTF-WPS) at 14%. Other agencies—Armed Forces of the Philippines (8%), Department of National Defense (5%), Department of Foreign Affairs (3%), and smaller percentages for the National Security Council and National Maritime Council—also feature in public perception.
Experts say the PCG’s leadership in maritime safety and incident reporting likely drives its high trust level, reinforcing the public’s preference for credible, on-the-ground information in a complex maritime dispute with China.
Purpose and Implications of the Survey
The We Protect Our Seas Foundation commissioned the study to support fact-based public discourse and policy transparency on maritime governance, security cooperation, and Indo-Pacific regional stability. The findings are intended to inform policymakers, encourage transparent communications, and foster informed citizen engagement as tensions in the WPS persist.
Context: A Longstanding Maritime Dispute
The Philippines scored a landmark victory in 2016 when the Permanent Court of Arbitration invalidated Beijing’s extensive South China Sea claims. China has since rejected the ruling and consistently signals ongoing dialogue while increasing assertive actions in disputed waters. In recent months, incidents near Pag-asa Island have heightened concerns about the safety of Filipino vessels and the need for transparent reporting channels. The Philippines has filed more than 150 diplomatic protests under President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr.’s administration, reflecting the persistent and evolving nature of this maritime dispute.
Looking Ahead
As public opinion leans toward transparency, authorities may intensify public communications about WPS developments, incident responses, and maritime governance. The Pulse Asia results suggest citizens expect accountable leadership and reliable information as pillars of national security and regional stability in the Indo-Pacific.
Read more on the topic: Defending Our Territory: The West Philippine Sea
