Malacañang is unfazed by a Social Weather Stations survey that revealed China is the country least trusted by Filipinos.

Presidential Spokesperson Salvador Panelo said the administration respects the conviction of Filipinos and will not court or force citizens to change their opinions about the Philippines’ neighbor.

“Despite the territorial dispute not being the sum total of our relationship with China, the Office of the President will neither court nor force any citizen to change his or her sentiments toward our giant neighbor in the North. We will respect their conviction the way we value their allegiance to the Republic and its elements,” Panelo’s statement on Thursday read.

Panelo believes Filipinos will appreciate the President’s independent foreign policy and eventually see China as an emerging role model in eradicating poverty.

The third quarter SWS survey conducted on 27-30 September showed net trust ratings (% much trust minus % little trust) fell from “poor” to “bad” for China, at -33 (21% much trust; 54% little trust) in September 2019, down by 9 points from -24 in June 2019. This is the lowest since the “bad” -35 in June 2018.

Of the six specific countries tested for public trust, net trust was at “excellent” +72 for the United States, “good” +37 for Australia, “good” +35 for Japan, “moderate” +26 for Singapore and “neutral” net zero for Vietnam.