A recent poll conducted amidst escalating tensions between China and the Philippines reveals a resolute stance among the majority of Filipino nationals toward defending their country. According to the findings of the survey conducted by independent consulting firm OCTA Research, a staggering 77 percent of respondents expressed readiness to engage in conflict in defense of the Philippines against foreign adversaries.
The survey, which was released following a recent escalation of tensions in the South China Sea, where China asserts territorial claims, sheds light on the sentiments prevailing among Filipinos in the face of external challenges.
The latest incident involved the China Coast Guard’s aggressive maneuvers to thwart a Philippine convoy carrying supplies and troops to the Second Thomas Shoal, resulting in damage to a supply boat and injuries to crew members.
Breaking down the poll results, it was observed that across various age groups, a significant willingness to defend the nation was evident. Specifically, 74 percent of respondents aged 18 to 24 expressed readiness for such action, mirroring the sentiment among the 35 to 44 and 45 to 54 age brackets, both registering at 77 percent.
Nearly 8 in 10 Filipinos are ready to defend against China’s claims in Philippine territory. (Credits: Crisis Group)
Furthermore, urban dwellers displayed a higher inclination (80 percent) towards defending their country compared to their rural counterparts (73 percent). Gender-wise, a larger proportion of men (82 percent) showed readiness for conflict compared to women (72 percent).
Interestingly, respondents with vocational training exhibited the highest propensity (86 percent) to take up arms, surpassing those with varying levels of formal education.
Notably, this survey marked the first time the question regarding readiness to fight for the country was included in OCTA Research’s polling. Guido David, an analyst from OCTA Research and a mathematics professor at the University of the Philippines, emphasized the significance of the findings.
The survey, conducted among 1,200 respondents aged 18 and above from December 10 to 14, carries a margin of error of plus or minus 95 percent with a confidence level of 95 percent.
Responding to the poll results, Chief of Staff of the Philippine military, Romeo Brawner Jr., urged the populace to view the findings as a call to action and prepare for potential defense requirements as mandated by the government.
Aside from direct engagement in conflict, Chief Brawner highlighted the role of Philippine nationals in rallying international support against what the government perceives as illegal and aggressive tactics employed by other nations, particularly in the West Philippine Sea, the portion of the South China Sea within the Philippines’ Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ).
The survey findings coincide with a growing public sentiment favoring a proactive stance by the government in safeguarding the country’s interests in the South China Sea. Recent statements by Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos and the implementation of enhanced patrols and a military modernization program underscore this shift toward assertiveness.
In response to inquiries regarding the territorial disputes, Chinese foreign ministry spokesperson Wang Wenbin reiterated China’s sovereignty claims over the South China Sea islands and expressed willingness to resolve differences through dialogue while asserting China’s commitment to safeguarding its territorial sovereignty and maritime rights and interests.
