A recent OCTA Research survey, conducted from March 19-25, 2026, with 1,200 respondents nationwide, indicates that a significant majority of Filipinos want the Marcos administration to prioritize asserting territorial rights and presence in the West Philippine Sea (WPS). The poll found that 69% of Filipinos believe expanded naval patrols and troop presence are crucial, while 66% support asserting rights through diplomacy and peaceful methods, and 64% advocate for modernizing the military's capabilities to protect national territories. Awareness of WPS issues is high, with 72% of adult Filipinos familiar with the territorial disputes, suggesting informed public opinion on this matter, which was commissioned by the Armed Forces of the Philippines.