The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) said public support for stronger action in the West Philippine Sea reinforces its push to expand maritime patrols, modernize its capabilities, and protect Filipino fishermen.
Rear Admiral Roy Vincent Trinidad (ret.), AFP special spokesperson for the West Philippine Sea, said the latest OCTA Research Tugon ng Masa survey showed a “strong, unified resolve” among Filipinos on how the government should respond to tensions in the country’s maritime domain.
The survey showed that 69 percent of Filipinos favored expanded naval patrols and a stronger military presence in the West Philippine Sea (WPS), while 66 percent supported peaceful diplomacy. Another 64 percent backed the modernization of the AFP.
Trinidad said the results were “deeply encouraging” and aligned with the military’s mandate to defend the country’s territory, maritime rights, and exclusive economic zone.
“These insights reinforce our implementation of the Comprehensive Archipelagic Defense Concept,” Trinidad said.
The AFP said it remains committed to strengthening its maritime presence, securing the country’s exclusive economic zone, and protecting Filipino fishermen operating in the West Philippine Sea.
Trinidad said the survey results would further strengthen the military’s resolve to defend national sovereignty and resist coercive and aggressive actions in Philippine waters.
“Your AFP remains steadfast in securing our Exclusive Economic Zone, reinforcing our maritime presence and protecting Filipino fishermen,” he said.
The military said public trust gives it added determination to carry out its mission in the West Philippine Sea while supporting diplomacy and long-term defense modernization.