The National Maritime Council (NMC) has lauded Slovenia for its firm affirmation of the 2016 South China Sea Arbitral Award and its solidarity with the Philippines in upholding international law in the West Philippine Sea (WPS).
In a statement Wednesday evening, the Philippine government expressed gratitude for Slovenia’s support, emphasizing the importance of the 2016 Permanent Court of Arbitration ruling as a final and binding decision in favor of the Philippines.
This award, issued under the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS), invalidated China’s expansive maritime claims in the South China Sea, including areas within the Philippines’ exclusive economic zone.
Slovenia’s affirmation joins a growing chorus of international backing, underscoring global recognition of the Philippines’ rightful claims and the broader commitment to a rules-based international order.
“Slovenia’s statement, along with the many statements of support from other countries for the Arbitral Award and the Philippines’ position, reaffirms that we are not alone in our effort to uphold international law in the West Philippine Sea,” the council said.
The statement further called attention to China’s continued disregard for international law, highlighting its “illegal, coercive, aggressive, and deceptive actions” in the region.
Such actions, the NMC asserted, demonstrate China’s refusal to adhere to the principles of UNCLOS and the 2016 Arbitral Award, undermining global stability and order.
Despite these challenges, the Philippines remains resolute in asserting its sovereignty and jurisdiction over its maritime zones. The council reaffirmed the government’s commitment to defending its rights in accordance with the UNCLOS, the 2016 Arbitral Award, and the Philippine Maritime Zones Act.
The NMC message serves as a call for continued international vigilance and cooperation in upholding the rule of law in contested waters.
“The world is watching, and no amount of coercion or disinformation can distort the real issue of China’s continuing illegal, coercive, aggressive, and deceptive actions,” the council stated, reiterating the global implications of maintaining peace and order in the WPS.