Speaker Ferdinand Martin G. Romualdez has praised President Ferdinand “Bongbong” R. Marcos Jr. for signing the Maritime Zones Act and Philippine Archipelagic Sea Lanes Law.
Speaker Romualdez emphasized that protecting the disputed territories within the Philippines’ 200-mile exclusive economic zone (EEZ) is not just a matter of national identity but also crucial for economic security, food supply, and national legacy.
He noted that studies indicate the West Philippine Sea (WPS) holds vast marine resources and potential oil deposits that should be preserved for future generations.
Romualdez stated that the two new laws send a clear message to neighboring countries that the Philippines is prepared to defend its territory.
He expressed gratitude for President Marcos’ unwavering commitment to protecting the nation’s interests in the contested waters.
The two laws align with the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS), which recognizes the Philippines’ 200-mile EEZ and authorizes national legislation to safeguard it.
Both the Philippines and China are signatories to UNCLOS.
Romualdez highlighted that the Maritime Zones Law and Archipelagic Sea Lanes Act reinforce the July 2016 ruling by the Permanent Court of Arbitration, which upheld the Philippines’ EEZ rights under UNCLOS and rejected China’s sweeping claims over the South China Sea, including the WPS.
He urged China to cease its encroachments and allow the Philippines to assert its sovereignty and legal rights over the WPS, including the protection of marine, gas, and oil resources.
