“We must persistently assert our country’s rights, not only to protect our national security but also as a responsible country committed to sustaining regional stability and the rules-based international order”
On the 8th anniversary of the historic arbitral award, the Philippines firmly asserts its sovereignty, territorial integrity, and economic rights in the West Philippine Sea.
This assertiveness is not a solo endeavor; it stands bolstered by the unwavering support of like-minded states who equally value and are committed to uphold international law and the rules-based order.
At least 26 countries, through their ambassadors and representatives, gathered on Friday at the largest West Philippine Sea conference of 2024, organized by the Stratbase Institute.
This monumental event saw global and regional powers, including the United States, Japan, Australia, Canada, and France, reaffirming their support for the 2016 arbitral award.
Also present were ambassadors from Austria, Bangladesh, the European Union, Germany, Greece, New Zealand, Norway, Poland, Romania, and Vietnam, alongside representatives from Brunei, Cyprus, Czech Republic, Indonesia, Ireland, Italy, Netherlands, Singapore, Spain, Switzerland, and the United Kingdom.
The collective emphasis was on adhering to the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) and highlighting the destabilizing actions of China in the region.
US Ambassador MaryKay Carlson emphasized the significance of the arbitral ruling for the broader Indo-Pacific region.
She highlighted the strong and growing alliance between the Philippines and the United States and condemned China’s aggressive actions.
She declared “The arbitral award is a linchpin in the Philippines’ national security vision, and the United States steadfastly supports it. Our alliance grows stronger by the day through 500 joint exercises and other engagements every single year.”
Australia’s Ambassador Hae Kyong “HK” Yu PSM underscored the collective obligation to adhere to international law, particularly UNCLOS, and emphasized that maritime security requires joint efforts from all nations.
“The situation we are facing eight years since the tribunal’s clear and unanimous decisions shows us that there is still such a strong need for all of us to continue to underline the importance of adhering to our obligations under international law,” HK Yu said.
Japanese Ambassador Endo Kazuya commended the Philippines’ efforts that paved the way for this historic arbitral award and reiterated it is final and legally binding.
“Our presence here today is a powerful reminder of our unwavering commitment to cooperation and the strength of our unified alliance. We need to envision a future where the seas serve as a bridge that unites rather than divides us,” Kazuya said.
Canadian Ambassador David Hartman likewise condemned China’s aggressive actions and stressed the importance of freedom of navigation and upholding the rule of law.
Amidst the unprecedented rise in security threats in the Indo-Pacific region, Hartman committed that, “Canada will continue to work with the Philippines and our allies to provide meaningful support to regional peace and security and uphold the rule of law in the maritime domain.”
French Ambassador Marie Fontanel recognized the arbitral award as a significant reinforcement of the rules-based international order.
She reaffirmed “The 2016 Arbitral Award sends a powerful message to the world. Our partnership with the Philippines, based on democracy, rule of law, and multilateralism, is stronger than ever.”
Stratbase Institute President Prof. Victor Andres “Dindo” Manhit proposed to reinforce cooperation and elevate partnerships by conducting joint patrols and military exercises and called for more support for the modernization of the Armed Forces of the Philippines.
Manhit believes these measures “will send a strong message that the Philippines is not alone.”
“Those who attempt to circumvent their obligations and behave aggressively will not be tolerated by the international community. We will not waver in our determination and commitment,” Manhit said.
Continuing to assert our stance in the West Philippine Sea is crucial for safeguarding our sovereignty, territorial integrity, and economic rights.
The arbitral award of 2016 provides a legal foundation for these rights, invalidates Beijing’s “ten-dash” expansionary ambitions, and reinforces the importance of adhering to international law, specifically the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea.
We must persistently assert our country’s rights, not only to protect our national security but also as a responsible country committed to sustaining regional stability and the rules-based international order.
This stance deters illegal activities and aggressive actions in our waters, ensuring that our maritime resources are preserved, and that freedom of navigation is upheld for the stability of the global economy.
The unwavering support of like-minded states is astounding.
Their diplomatic, strategic, and moral support underscores the collective commitment to a peaceful and secure Indo-Pacific region.
This international support not only bolsters the Filipino people’s confidence but also amplifies our country’s voice in the global geopolitical arena as a defender for peace and prosperity under the rule of law in the West Philippine Sea.
