Dr. Ronald Pernia and Asst. Prof. Ranjit Rye recently published an article entitled, “The Dynamics of Public Opinion Towards China and Chinese Nationals: Empirical Evidence in the Philippines” in the latest issue of the Chinese Political Science Review.
The abstract reads:
This study examines the complexities of Filipino public opinion regarding China, focusing on how ongoing maritime disputes shape perceptions of China as a state actor versus Chinese nationals residing within the Philippines. Despite heightened tensions with China over territorial claims in the South China Sea, there is a notable absence of widespread hostility toward Chinese Filipinos, which stands in contrast to the distrust of the Chinese government. Drawing on international trust, group threat, and intergroup contact theories, this study explores why Filipinos exhibit divergent attitudes toward the Chinese government and Chinese nationals living in the country. Using original survey data from a nationally representative sample conducted by OCTA Research, this study identifies key factors such as geographical location and local socio-political contexts that mediate these perceptions. The findings suggest that Filipino attitudes toward China are shaped by the geopolitical rivalry at the state level, yet local socio-cultural dynamics significantly influence views of Chinese nationals. The study contributes to a nuanced understanding of how international conflicts affect domestic perceptions, shedding light on the interplay between national identity, foreign policy and intergroup relations. By addressing the gap in existing literature, this study offers fresh insights into the role of context and proximity in shaping public opinion on foreign powers.
Access it here: https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s41111-025-00294-2