Filipinos Support Dual Approach in Asserting Territorial Rights in the West Philippine Sea
Filipinos continue to support a dual approach of diplomacy and military action in asserting the country’s territorial rights in the West Philippine Sea, according to a recent survey.
The survey, conducted by the OCTA Research group from March 11 to 14, revealed that seven out of 10 respondents want the government to prioritize both diplomacy and military action in addressing issues related to territorial disputes. A significant 73 percent said that the government should assert the Philippines’ territorial rights by expanding naval patrols and troop presence, while 72 percent favored prioritizing diplomacy and other peaceful methods.
Moreover, 68 percent of the respondents believe that the government should modernize and strengthen the military’s capability to protect the country’s territories. The survey allowed respondents to select up to three answers, resulting in a total exceeding 100 percent.
In addition, responses included conducting joint maritime patrols and exercises with ally countries, expanding diplomatic efforts with countries within and outside the region to reduce tension, and shelving disputes for joint economic development in the area.
Compared to previous years, more Filipinos now support expanding naval patrols and troop presence in the region. Only 65 percent supported the idea in surveys conducted in July and October 2023, but the figure increased to 72 percent in December 2023 and 73 percent in March 2024.
The survey also showed an increase in support for modernizing the military, from 61 percent in July 2023 to 68 percent in the latest survey. The support for a diplomacy approach remained relatively stable, with 70 percent in July 2023 and 72 percent in March 2024.
In a related development, a decommissioned tanker representing an enemy ship was sunk off Laoag, Ilocos Norte during this year’s Balikatan exercises. The Philippine Navy, in collaboration with the United States military, successfully used advanced missile systems to accurately hit the target, showcasing their cutting-edge firepower during the maritime strike drill. The sinking exercise highlighted the coordinated and multi-dimensional nature of modern naval warfare.
