A new Social Weather Stations (SWS) survey reveals that Filipinos prioritize modernizing the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) and the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) as the most effective way to defend the nation’s maritime rights. The poll, conducted for Stratbase Institute, indicates this preference outweighs strengthening existing military partnerships or pursuing new defense agreements. This suggests a focus on self-reliance in bolstering the country’s defense capabilities in contested waters. The survey highlights public sentiment favoring investment in domestic military assets over reliance on external alliances. This finding provides insight into Filipino perspectives on national security amidst ongoing regional tensions. Further details of the survey methodology and specific percentages were not provided in the initial report. This prioritization reflects a growing concern for safeguarding Philippine sovereignty in the West Philippine Sea.