Pulse Asia survey results echo need for 'collaborative approach' in WPS —Año

National Security Adviser Secretary Eduardo Año on Thursday said that the results of the recent Pulse Asia survey reiterated the need for a "collaborative approach" for the West Philippine Sea (WPS) issue.

The survey showed that eight out of 10 Filipinos said the Marcos administration should work with the United States amid the ongoing tension in the West Philippine Sea. It also showed that more than half of Filipinos believe that the Philippines should reinforce its alliances with like-minded countries through joint patrols.

“Additionally, 56 percent advocate for reinforcing alliances through joint patrols and military exercises with like-minded countries, echoing the need for a collaborative approach,” Año said in a statement.

Año emphasized that the National Task Force for the West Philippine Sea is already working on this. 

“We will continue working towards peaceful and diplomatic solutions, reinforcing alliances with like-minded nations, and ensuring the safety and security of our maritime domain,” he said.

“This affirmation not only reinforces the correctness of our position but also highlights the shared commitment to safeguarding our nation's interests in the global arena,” added Año. 

The survey also showed that 43% favored working with Australia and 42% with Japan, based on the survey.

“This reinforces the shared values and commitment to peace and stability in the Indo- Pacific and the commitment to a rules-based international order,” Año added.

Commissioned by international think tank Stratbase Institute, the survey was conducted from December 3 to 7, 2023, involving 1,200 respondents from all over the country.

The respondents were asked about their view on the countries or organizations that they want the Philippines to work with considering the implications of the tensions in the WPS on the country’s security and economy. 

The respondents were allowed to choose up to three answers. 

Tensions between China and the Philippines have heightened in recent months as both sides trade accusations over a series of incidents in the South China Sea.

China claims most of the South China Sea, parts of which are also claimed by the Philippines, Brunei, Malaysia, Taiwan, Vietnam and Indonesia. 

An international tribunal in 2016 invalidated China's claim in a ruling on a case brought by the Philippines. Beijing rejects the decision.

The Philippines includes areas of the South China Sea that falls within its exclusive economic zone and continental shelf as part of the West Philippine Sea. —VAL, GMA Integrated News