SWS: 78% of Filipinos to Vote for Candidates Who Support PH Rights in WPS

A Social Weather Stations (SWS) survey revealed that 78% of Filipinos would vote for candidates who believe in asserting the Philippines’ territorial rights against China’s aggression in the West Philippine Sea (WPS).

The nationwide poll, conducted from February 15 to 19 and commissioned by Stratbase, also found that 77% of respondents favor strengthening alliances through joint patrols, joint sails, and military exercises with other countries to defend the Philippines’ territorial and economic rights.

Survey Breakdown

• 1,800 registered voters were interviewed face-to-face.
• Sampling error margins:
  • ±2.31% for national data
  • ±3.27% for Balance Luzon
  • ±5.66% each for Metro Manila, Visayas, and Mindanao

When asked if they would vote for a candidate who does not support asserting PH rights in WPS, only 22% said yes.

Among those who support strengthening alliances in WPS:

• 59% strongly agreed
• 18% somewhat agreed
• 14% were undecided
• 9% disagreed (4% somewhat disagreed, 5% strongly disagreed)

Stratbase: PH Needs to Rely on Allies

Stratbase President Dindo Manhit emphasized that the survey results reflect Filipino sentiment on national security:

“Eight out of ten Filipinos want candidates who will stand up for our sovereignty,” he said during a forum.

He added that 77% support alliances and joint military efforts, recognizing that the Philippines’ strength lies with its allies.

With Eleksyon 2025 approaching, national security and maritime sovereignty in the WPS are shaping up to be key issues for Filipino voters.