Año: Filipinos’ support shows gov’t stance on WPS in right direction

FILE: Interior and Local Government Secretary Eduardo Año gives an update to President Rodrigo Roa Duterte during a meeting with the Inter-Agency Task Force on the Emerging Infectious Diseases (IATF-EID) core members at the Malacañan Palace on January 6, 2022. ALBERTO ALCAIN/ PRESIDENTIAL PHOTO

MANILA – The National Security Council (NSC) on Thursday lauded the Filipinos’ continued trust in the government’s strategic alliances and diplomatic initiatives as part of its efforts to resolve the West Philippine Sea (WPS) issue.

“We welcome the results of the survey conducted by Pulse Asia, which showed that a significant 79 percent of respondents believe that the Philippines should work with the United States and other partners and allies amid the continuing tensions in the West Philippine Sea.

We appreciate the trust and confidence our countrymen place in our strategic alliances and diplomatic efforts,” National Security Adviser and NSC chief Eduardo Año said in a statement.

The Pulse Asia survey was commissioned by the international think-tank Stratbase Institute and released on Jan. 16 during their forum titled “Fortifying Cyber Cooperation Towards Digital Security.”

The respondents, who were given the option to choose three countries or organizations, also highlighted the importance of collaboration with Australia and Japan, both garnering 43 percent and 42 percent support, respectively.

Año said this reinforces the shared values and commitment to peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific region and the commitment to a rules-based international order.

“We thank the public for their support underscoring the significance of fostering international partnerships. This affirmation not only reinforces the correctness of our position but also highlights the shared commitment to safeguarding our nation’s interests in the global arena,” he said.

Año added that they are pleased to take note of the public’s suggestions on measures the administration could undertake to assert the country’s rights in the WPS.

A substantial 67 percent emphasize the importance of strengthening our external defense capabilities, especially the Navy, Air Force, and Coast Guard.

Additionally, 56 percent advocate for reinforcing alliances through joint patrols and military exercises with like-minded countries, echoing the need for a collaborative approach.

The survey underscores the urgency to address the situation by establishing a stronger military presence in the WPS, as suggested by 52 percent of the respondents.

The call for improving inter-agency cooperation in maritime security is also echoed by another 52 percent.

A majority of 52 percent of respondents believe that the Marcos administration can fulfill its promise of protecting the WPS against illegal and aggressive actions by other states.

This confidence reflects the public’s trust in the administration’s commitment to safeguarding our territorial integrity and maritime interests.

“As we move forward, the National Task Force for the West Philippine Sea remains dedicated to upholding our nation’s sovereignty and territorial rights. 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,” Año said.