FridayOL

MANILA, Philippines – Nine years after the historic 2016 Arbitral Ruling, the Philippines is resolutely reaffirming its commitment to defending its sovereign rights and jurisdiction in the West Philippine Sea (WPS). The Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) has underscored that the arbitral award remains a cornerstone of Philippine policy in the region, guiding its actions and bolstering its claims.

The landmark ruling, issued by the Permanent Court of Arbitration in The Hague, invalidated China’s expansive claims over the South China Sea, a significant portion of which the Philippines refers to as the WPS. It affirmed the Philippines’ sovereign rights over its exclusive economic zone (EEZ) and continental shelf, rejecting China's 'nine-dash line' which encroaches upon Philippine territory and maritime zones.

Why the Ruling Still Matters

The 2016 Arbitral Ruling isn't just a legal victory; it's a testament to the rule of law and a crucial tool in navigating the complex geopolitical landscape of the WPS. It provides a solid legal basis for the Philippines to challenge actions that violate its rights, including illegal fishing, harassment of Filipino fishermen, and the construction of artificial islands by China.

“The 2016 Arbitral Award remains a vital tool in upholding our rights in the WPS,” stated DFA spokesperson Ma. Teresita Daza in a recent press briefing. “We will continue to utilize this ruling as a guide in our diplomatic engagements and actions to protect our national interests.”

Ongoing Challenges and Philippine Strategy

Despite the ruling, challenges persist. China has largely ignored the decision and continues to assert its claims in the WPS, leading to frequent tensions with the Philippines. The Philippines, however, is employing a multi-faceted approach to address these challenges:

• Diplomacy: Engaging in dialogue with China, while consistently reminding them of the arbitral ruling.
• Legal Action: Utilizing international law and forums to challenge China's actions.
• Strengthening Alliances: Deepening partnerships with like-minded nations, particularly the United States, Japan, and Australia, to bolster security and support in the region.
• Capacity Building: Investing in the capabilities of the Philippine Coast Guard and the Department of National Defense to effectively patrol and protect Philippine maritime territories.
• Public Awareness: Educating the Filipino public about the importance of the WPS and the legal basis for Philippine claims.

Looking Ahead

The Philippines’ unwavering commitment to defending its rights in the WPS, anchored by the 2016 Arbitral Ruling, demonstrates its resolve to safeguard its national sovereignty and uphold the principles of international law. While the path ahead may be fraught with challenges, the Philippines remains steadfast in its pursuit of a peaceful and rules-based order in the region, ensuring the security and prosperity of future generations.

The DFA's continued emphasis on the arbitral award signals a clear message to China and the international community: the Philippines will not abandon its legal rights and will persistently work towards a just and equitable resolution of the WPS issue.