12-7-2023 (MANILA) Seven years since the Philippines won its arbitration case against China in The Hague, the Department of Foreign Affairs has reiterated the importance of the landmark ruling for international law.
In a statement this week, the DFA said it welcomes global support for the 2016 tribunal verdict invalidating China’s vast claims in the South China Sea, part of which is the West Philippine Sea.
“The ruling is a milestone and significant contribution to international law’s progressive development. It benefits not just the Philippines but the world,” the DFA said.
The agency likened the ruling to a lighthouse, illuminating the path toward peaceful dispute resolution and a rules-based international order.
The Permanent Court of Arbitration ruled in 2016 that China’s “nine-dash line” claim had no legal basis under international law.
Since then, the verdict has been cited by the Philippines and other claimants to counter Chinese aggression in the waters.
However, Beijing has largely dismissed the outcome, insisting it has no legal standing.
The DFA said the ruling has “paved new ways for the country to secure our rights, in line with our rich maritime heritage.”
“We will continue translating the ruling’s gains into benefits for Filipinos to protect our legitimate interests in our maritime domain, and promote peace, security and prosperity in the region,” the agency added.
The DFA also launched a microsite with official information about the case and explainers on the West Philippine Sea issue.
Apart from sovereignty concerns, scientists stress declaring the waters a marine protected area given its rich marine resources and role in shielding Southeast Asia from climate change.
“The West Philippine Sea is vitally important ecologically, not just for the South China Sea but beyond,” environmentalist Ben Malayang said.
