Surge in Support for the United States as Manila’s Key Partner
A recent nationwide survey conducted for the We Protect Our Seas Foundation reveals that a commanding 77% of Filipinos view the United States as the best country to assist the Philippines in addressing Chinese coercion in the West Philippine Sea (WPS). The Pulse Asia poll was carried out from September 27 to 30, 2025, and surveyed 1,200 adults across Metro Manila, Luzon, the Visayas, and Mindanao, with a margin of error of ±2.8% at the 95% confidence level.
The findings underscore a broad preference for U.S. leadership in protecting Philippine maritime rights amid ongoing tensions with China over the disputed waters. The results show a regional pattern: the United States leads in all major island groups, with the highest levels of support in Metro Manila (82%) and Luzon (81%), followed by the Visayas (77%) and Mindanao (65%).
Other Nations in the Mix
Beyond the United States, respondents named several countries as potential partners in addressing WPS challenges. Japan ranked second with 45% support, followed by Australia (30%), Canada (29%), the United Kingdom (25%), South Korea (22%), Germany (17%), France (10%), and India (3%). A small portion—about 1%—could not specify a country or chose “none,” while 0.2% mentioned Russia. Respondents were allowed to name up to three countries, highlighting a preference pattern that prioritizes long-standing security allies and regional partners.
Context: Legal Precedent and Recent Incidents
The survey arrives amid a long-running dispute over the South China Sea, a case that culminated in a 2016 ruling by the Permanent Court of Arbitration that invalidated China’s extensive claims. China has repeatedly challenged international rulings and has continued to assert its maritime claims, while the Philippines has filed numerous diplomatic protests—over 150 to date under President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr.—in response to maritime provocations and coercive tactics in WPS waters.
Recent incidents have intensified concerns over freedom of navigation and territorial integrity in the region. Notably, a China Coast Guard vessel water cannoned and later rammed a Philippine government vessel near Pag-asa Island, underscoring the ongoing security challenges Manila faces as it seeks to safeguard its maritime rights and fisheries resources.
Implications for Security Policy and Public Opinion
The Pulse Asia results reflect a public that views the United States as a cornerstone of the Philippines’ security architecture, alongside regional partners. For policymakers, the data reinforces the importance of maintaining and strengthening alliances, conducting joint exercises, and pursuing diplomacy that supports rules-based order in the West Philippine Sea. While the survey emphasizes broad support for U.S. engagement, it also shows continued respect for diverse international partnerships that can contribute to maritime stability and regional peace.
What’s Next?
Experts say the next steps involve ensuring clear, predictable security commitments and transparent communications about alliance responsibilities. In the Philippine government’s framing, leveraging international law, sustaining deterrence, and promoting cooperative security arrangements can help manage tensions while protecting the nation’s sovereign rights. For citizens, the survey highlights a national consensus on the value of principled partnerships in safeguarding Philippine interests at sea.
