Upholding PH maritime rights 'non-negotiable' - Legarda

By Wilnard Bacelonia

MANILA--Senator Loren Legarda on Wednesday reaffirmed the Philippines' firm position on its maritime rights, emphasizing that adherence to the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) and the 2016 Arbitral Award is "non-negotiable."

In her keynote address during the Department of Foreign Affairs' Ocean Talk, Legarda said the rule of law must be the bedrock of ocean governance, especially amid intensifying threats to the country's territorial integrity and marine resources.

"Upholding our maritime rights is non-negotiable. Adherence to UNCLOS and the 2016 South China Sea Arbitration Award is the foundation of stability and stewardship in our waters," Legarda said. "Only the rule of law can secure the strength of ocean governance."

The senator represented the country at the recently concluded Third United Nations Ocean Conference (UNOC3), where the Philippines served as one of the 13 vice presidents.

She said that while the Philippines has taken part in shaping international ocean policy, real change must be implemented at the local level.

Legarda said the 2016 ruling, which invalidated China's expansive claims over the South China Sea, must remain central in defending Philippine sovereignty and marine biodiversity.

"The Philippines has led and will continue to lead in ocean protection and climate action," she said.

As vice chair of the Senate foreign relations panel, Legarda vowed to prioritize the ratification of the High Seas Treaty, formally known as the BBNJ (Biodiversity Beyond National Jurisdiction) Agreement, and to champion legislation such as the proposed Blue Economy Act.

She said the country's maritime stance must be strengthened by local action, including empowered coastal communities, expanded marine protected areas, and tighter enforcement of laws against illegal fishing and plastic pollution.

"Our most significant victories are yet to be wonif we dare to do more, together," Legarda said.

The Philippines won a landmark ruling in 2016 at the Permanent Court of Arbitration in The Hague, which declared China's sweeping claims over the South China Seabased on its so-called nine-dash linehave no legal basis under UNCLOS.

Despite the ruling, China continues to assert its presence in Philippine waters, prompting repeated calls from the international community and Filipino officials for full compliance with international maritime law. (PNA)

(2025/08/14-11:22)

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