National Security Adviser Eduardo Año (file photo)
MANILA, Philippines — The survey which showed that the majority of Filipinos wants to work with the United States to address the West Philippine Sea (WPS) dispute affirmed that the government’s pivot with Washington and other allies is the “correct” move, according to National Security Adviser Eduardo Año.
Año made the statement as Pulse Asia’s survey revealed that 79 percent of the 1,200 respondents said they want the administration of President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. to work with the United States.
On the other hand, only 10 percent of Filipinos favored working with China, the survey — commissioned by think tank Stratbase ADR — also revealed.
“We appreciate the trust and confidence our countrymen place in our strategic alliances and diplomatic efforts,” Año said in a statement.
“We thank the public for their support underscoring the significance of fostering international partnerships,” Año continued.
“This affirmation not only reinforces the correctness of our position but also highlights the shared commitment to safeguarding our nation’s interest in the global arena.”
Marcos restored the country’s close relationship with the United States as he allowed Washington to have more access to several Philippine military bases and allowed several joint patrols in the WPS.
In view of this policy shift, the same Pulse Asia survey also revealed that the majority or 55 percent of Filipinos believe that the Marcos administration can fulfill its promise of protecting the WPS.
Año said that this reflects “the public’s trust in the administration’s commitment to safeguarding the nation’s territorial integrity and maritime interests.”
“We will continue working towards peaceful and diplomatic solutions, reinforcing alliances with like-minded nations and ensuring the safety and security of our maritime domain,” he added.