The House of Representatives on Monday ratified the bicameral conference committee report on the proposed Philippine Archipelagic Sea Lanes (ASLs).
Pangasinan Rep. Maria Rachel Arenas, chair of the House committee on foreign affairs and head of the House contingent to the bicameral conference committee, thanked her colleagues for the swift ratification of the ASLs bicam report.
“The protection of our maritime domain has never been more critical. The establishment of archipelagic sea lanes within our waters, as mandated by the UNCLOS, is essential to safeguard the integrity of our national territory while maintaining our commitments under international law,” Arenas said.
The lawmaker noted that the bill is “designed to provide clear guidelines for the passage of foreign ships and aircraft through our archipelagic waters, ensuring that such passage does not undermine our national security or disturb the peace and good order of our country.”
“Together with the Philippine Maritime Zones Act, reinforces the Philippines’ commitment to international maritime law, particularly UNCLOS, while fostering greater cooperation with neighboring states in maintaining peace and stability in the region,” Arenas added.
The bill shall now be prepared for transmittal to the Office of the President. Once enacted, the designation of ASLs shall strengthen our country’s maritime governance and security.
It likewise balances the Philippines’ national interest and the right of the international community as provided in the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS).
The conference committee on the Philippine Archipelagic Sea Bill chaired by Sen. Francis Tolentino and Arenas finalized the bicameral conference committee report on Sept. 4, 2024.
