10/06/2026
AFP Welcomes Strong Public Support for Assertive West Philippine Sea Posture
The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) expressed its gratitude to the Filipino people following the release of the latest Tugon ng Masa (TNM) nationwide survey conducted by OCTA Research from March 19 to 25, 2026, which found that 72 percent of adult Filipinos support a more assertive Philippine posture in the West Philippine Sea (WPS).
The findings further showed that majority of adult Filipinos are familiar with current developments in the WPS. Across major areas, familiarity was highest in the National Capital Region at 79 percent, while regional awareness peaked in MIMAROPA at 100 percent, followed by Western Visayas at 94 percent, Caraga at 88 percent, and CALABARZON at 82 percent.
Notably, the survey also revealed that expanded naval and troop presence ranks highest among public preferences, reflecting strong support for a three-pillar strategy anchored on territorial assertion, diplomacy, and AFP modernization which highlights a clear and enduring national consensus on safeguarding the country’s maritime interests.
The AFP expresses its gratitude for the continued support of the Filipino people and reassures the nation of its unwavering commitment to its mandate by strengthening its capabilities, supporting diplomatic initiatives, and upholding a rules-based order in the West Philippine Sea in pursuit of a peaceful, stable, and prosperous future for all Filipinos.
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