According to a recent survey conducted by OCTA Research, six out of ten Filipinos agree with President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s response to the ongoing dispute between the Philippines and China in the West Philippine Sea. The survey, called the Tugon ng Masa Survey, was conducted in the fourth quarter from December 10 to 14.
The survey revealed that 61 percent of the respondents agreed with the government’s handling of the dispute. This shows a three-percentage-point increase from the 58 percent recorded in the previous quarter. On the other hand, only eight percent of the respondents disagreed with the government’s response, while 31 percent remained undecided.
The survey also provided insights into the regional differences in opinion. The National Capital Region showed the highest level of support, with 67 percent of respondents agreeing with the government’s response. Meanwhile, Mindanao had the lowest level of agreement at 52 percent.
When analyzing the data by socioeconomic class, respondents from class D showed the highest level of agreement, with 64 percent supporting the government’s response in the West Philippine Sea dispute.
It is important to note that the survey had 1,200 respondents and a margin of error of plus or minus three percent. This sample size provides a reasonable representation of the overall population, allowing for a reliable understanding of public sentiment.
The results of this survey offer valuable insights into the opinions of Filipinos regarding the ongoing dispute in the West Philippine Sea. The majority of respondents expressed support for President Marcos Jr.’s approach to the issue. This support can be seen across different regions and socioeconomic classes, indicating a broad consensus among the Filipino population.
Understanding the reasons behind this support requires a deeper analysis of the political and historical context. The West Philippine Sea dispute has been a longstanding issue, with both the Philippines and China claiming sovereignty over certain areas. The dispute involves territorial claims, maritime rights, and access to valuable resources in the region.
Given the complexity of the issue, it is essential to consider the local laws, customs, and historical background to fully understand the Filipino perspective. The Philippines has been actively pursuing diplomatic and legal avenues to assert its claims in the West Philippine Sea. President Marcos Jr.’s response, as supported by the majority of Filipinos, likely aligns with these efforts.
It is also worth noting that public opinion on international disputes can be influenced by various factors, including media coverage, political rhetoric, and national security concerns. These factors can shape public perception and influence support for a particular government response.
In conclusion, the recent survey conducted by OCTA Research indicates that a majority of Filipinos agree with President Marcos Jr.’s response to the ongoing dispute in the West Philippine Sea. The survey provides valuable insights into regional and socioeconomic differences in opinion, highlighting a broad consensus among the Filipino population. To fully understand this support, it is necessary to consider the local context, including historical and legal factors.
Source: The Manila Times
