Manila, June 8 -- A recent OCTA Research survey showed that 71 percent of adult Filipinos back allied military exercises for a secure West Philippine Sea (WPS), the survey firm reported Monday.

The survey, conducted from March 19-25, 2026, had 1,200 respondents.

The poll, commissioned by the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), asked the question: In your opinion, what is the effect of joint military exercises or patrols with allied nations on the security of WPS?

Majority (71 percent) answered "very large help / little help" while 14 percent answered that it could he harmful or could cause trouble.

At least 7 percent said it will have no effect, while another 7 percent said they are not sure.

The perception that the joint activit...