A Social Weather Stations (SWS) survey shows many Filipinos prioritize strengthening the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) and the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) over pursuing new military partnerships and defense agreements to protect the country’s maritime rights. Commissioned by the Stratbase Institute, the poll was conducted from June 20 to 29. According to the results, 45% of respondents name AFP and PCG modernization as their first-choice measure the Philippines should continue implementing to defend its seas. Another 33% choose strengthening military partnerships and forging new defense agreements as a first priority. The reports also indicate that alliances rank second among respondents as a first-choice option nationwide. Separate outlet coverage adds that reinforcement of alliances emerges as the top second-choice measure overall, suggesting that while modernization is the leading preference, many respondents still consider expanded cooperation as an alternative priority. Overall, the findings reflect a public view that building up existing maritime and defense capabilities is the more urgent step compared with introducing or expanding defense pacts.