A recent Pulse Asia survey reveals a majority of Filipinos believe the Philippines should collaborate with the United States, Japan, and other Western-aligned nations to bolster its defense capabilities in the West Philippine Sea. The poll indicates strong public support for strengthening alliances to address ongoing territorial disputes in the region. This preference suggests a desire for external support in navigating complex geopolitical challenges. The survey did not detail specific levels of support for individual nations beyond highlighting the US and Japan as top choices. The West Philippine Sea is a key area of contention, with overlapping claims from several countries, including China. The findings reflect a broader sentiment regarding national security concerns and the importance of international partnerships for the Philippines.