Filipino Perception of China as Top Security Threat Rises

A December survey by OCTA Research reveals that 79% of adult Filipinos perceive China as the greatest external security threat to the Philippines. This marks an increase from 74% in July and continues a trend of rising tension observed between January 2021 and December 2025. The highest level of threat perception occurred in the National Capital Region, where 84% of respondents expressed this view.

The poll shows widespread distrust, with 60% of respondents stating the Philippines should not trust China. This sentiment follows frequent maritime confrontations in the South China Sea, where the Philippines has accused Chinese coast guard and maritime militia ships of harassment and the use of water cannons.

While the Philippines relies on a 2016 arbitral tribunal ruling that voided Beijing's expansive claims, the Government of China continues to assert its position under the nine-dash line and refuses to recognize the ruling.