Filipino Public Opinion, Presidential Leadership and the US-Led War in Iraq
In: International journal of public opinion research, Volume 16, Issue 3, p. 344-359
ISSN: 0954-2892
The Philippines, long considered an ally of the United States in Muslim-dominated South East Asia, feared being at the losing end of a US-led war in Iraq. At the height of the US-Iraq war, there was fear of increased terrorist attacks in the country & a worsening of the economy. The majority of Filipinos wanted the government to take a neutral stance in the fight against Iraq. Despite this, President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo declared her support for the US-led coalition. As a consequence, her ratings suffered. The national administration made every effort to address issues related to the war, such as price increases, oil supply, the fear of terrorist attacks, & the plight of Filipinos working in the danger zones. These efforts were crucial in assuring the public that, despite the government's support for the war, the country would continue to experience security & stability. With the quick end to the war, public anxiety declined, government efforts to keep the country secure & stable were recognized & the President's ratings improved. 9 Tables, 17 References. Adapted from the source document.