Pulse Asia: Big majority of Filipinos want stronger ties with US, Japan

Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, November 9) — A recent survey by private pollster Pulse Asia said a big majority of Filipinos want the government to strengthen economic ties with the United States and Japan.

The poll, which was commissioned by international think tank Stratbase ADR Institute, was conducted from Sept. 10 to 14. It asked 1,200 respondents across the Philippines to identify three countries they believe the Marcos administration should strengthen economic relations with.

The survey said 74% of Filipinos want the country to have stronger economic ties with the United States. Rounding up the top three were Japan with 55%, and Australia with 46%.

Meanwhile, 40% chose Canada, 26% the European Union, 21% the United Kingdom, 19% China, and 4% India.

“Investments are crucial to unlocking the Philippines’ economic potential. Partnering with these economic partners and focusing on sectors that present great opportunities boost our chances of attaining investment-led growth that will pave the way for a resilient, prosperous, and sustainable future for Filipinos,” Stratbase president Dindo Manhit said.

The survey results were released during a forum on Wednesday organized by Stratbase.

The poll also found that 70% of Filipinos agree the private sector has an important role in ensuring economic security.

The participants were also asked to identify three ways the private sector can help in the attainment of economic security. Majority said it can make goods that are more affordable and accessible to Filipino consumers (64%), create jobs (60%), and expand livelihood opportunities (58%).

The survey has a ±2.8% margin of error.