Recent surveys indicate a growing skepticism among Filipinos toward China, fueled by ongoing maritime disputes in the South China Sea and broader geopolitical frictions in the Indo-Pacific region. This surge in distrust is not only a reflection of unresolved territorial conflicts but also heightened concerns over economic dependence and political influence exerted by Beijing. Public sentiment shows anxiety over China’s expanding military presence paired with aggressive diplomatic posturing, leading many Filipinos to question the future of bilateral relations and national sovereignty.

Key factors contributing to this distrust include:

  • Territorial disputes: Persistent clashes in the West Philippine Sea impact fishermen and coastal communities directly.
  • Economic challenges: Unease over debt trap diplomacy and the terms of Chinese…