West PH Sea: Majority of Pinoys believe PH must form alliances – survey

WPS COMPOSITE IMAGE from Inquirer, AFP, Reuters file photos

MANILA, Philippines — The majority of Filipinos believe the Philippines must form alliances with other countries to defend its rights over the West Philippine Sea, according to a survey commissioned by global think-tank Stratbase ADR Institute.

Conducted by the Social Weather Stations from June 23 to July 1, the survey shows that 72% of the 1,500 respondents agreed that the Philippines must form alliances with other nations.

READ: PH looks to 3 key allies for external defense

Moreover, 60 percent of the respondents believe that the Philippine government’s actions in conducting joint patrols and military exercises with allies were sufficient.

The Philippines has conducted joint patrols in the West Philippine Sea with the United States, Australia, and France amid China’s aggressive and coercive actions in the West Philippine Sea.

READ: Philippines, US, France start joint patrols in West PH Sea

On the other hand, the United Kingdom has expressed interest in forging ties with the Philippines.

At least 26 countries have also reaffirmed their support for the 2016 Arbitral Award favoring the Philippines’ claims over the West Philippine Sea during Stratbase’s conference last July 12. It was held in celebration of the 8th anniversary of the arbitral ruling.

Stratbase ADR Institute President Dindo Manhit said there is a need to uphold the rule of the law amid China’s aggressions in the West Philippine Sea.

“We call on our friends, allies, and partners who also value the rule of law to join us in our fight, and the Philippine government to reinforce cooperation and elevate partnerships by conducting more joint patrols and military exercises in the West Philippine Sea,” he said.

“By conducting joint patrols with like-minded partners and allies, we are sending a strong message that the Philippines is not alone. Those who attempt to circumvent their obligations and behave aggressively will not be tolerated by the international community. We will not waver in our determination and commitment,” he added.