SEVEN out of 10 Filipinos would not support "pro-China" candidates in the 2025 national elections based on the latest Pulse Asia survey.

Commissioned by the think tank Stratbase Group, the survey was conducted from September 6 to 13 with 1,200 respondents. It had a ±3 margin of error.

Those polled were asked if they would "support a candidate in the May 2025 national elections who is pro-China at present or in the past."

The survey showed that 73 percent of Filipinos said they "will not support" pro-China candidates in May 2025.

Only 5 percent of Filipinos said they "will support" pro-China candidates, while 23 percent "cannot say" whether or not they will support pro-China candidates.

"The sentiment among Filipinos reflects a profound mistrust toward candidates who align themselves with China," said Victor Andres Manhit, Stratbase Group founder and managing director.

"Many Filipinos feel that China's actions, particularly in the West Philippine Sea, directly challenge our sovereignty and undermine our nation's interests," he said in a statement on Monday.

Manhit added, "This prevailing view is driven by both patriotic sentiment and a desire for leaders who will prioritize the Philippines' long-term security and prosperity."

"Electing pro-China candidates poses significant risks, as it will lead to policies that compromise our territorial integrity, economic interests," he said.