A recent nationwide poll indicates that 45% of Filipinos consider modernizing the armed forces and coast guard the top priority for protecting the country’s maritime rights. The survey, conducted with 1,200 adults between June 20 and 29, shows broad backing across the archipelago.
Support peaks in the largest island group at 47%, followed by the capital region at 46%, the central islands at 44%, and the southern region at 39%.
The results come after the defense secretary urged the government to increase defense spending to as much as 4% of gross domestic product to strengthen the nation’s ability to counter actions in the contested sea.
When asked to rank priorities, 33% of respondents chose expanding maritime cooperation and joint military exercises with allies, while 22% favored forging additional defense and security agreements with like‑minded countries.
A leading institute’s president stressed that defending maritime rights requires credible capabilities, resilient institutions, and sustained investment in the military and coast guard.
He added that public sentiment reflects the view that security begins with the ability to protect sovereign rights and deter coercion in the disputed waters.
For a secondary priority, 39% preferred strengthening alliances, 31% wanted to expand defense agreements, and 30% continued to favor military modernization.
Analysts interpret the findings as evidence that Filipinos see domestic defense strength and international partnerships as complementary pillars of national security.
A separate recent poll revealed comparable public support for deeper security cooperation with several partner nations to address challenges in the contested sea.
