MANILA – The Philippine Maritime Zones Act and the Philippine Archipelagic Sea Lanes Act, signed by President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. on Friday, mark a pivotal moment in fortifying maritime sovereignty and securing national interests, especially in the West Philippine Sea.
In a statement released Saturday, the National Security Council said it will ensure the full implementation of the laws.
“These legal instruments solidify our territory and enhances our ability to protect our country against any infringement. As an archipelagic and maritime nation, our seas are crucial to our economic prosperity and national security. These laws empower us to govern our maritime zones effectively, while promoting lawful and peaceful maritime activities,” National Security Adviser Secretary Eduardo Año said, while also thanking the Senate and the House of Representatives for passing the landmark legislations.
“We are committed to working closely with all relevant stakeholders to ensure the full implementation and enforcement of these vital pieces of legislation.”
Año said the new laws are in accordance with the Philippines’ rights and obligations under the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea.
“With the Philippine Maritime Zones Act, we reaffirm our sovereignty over our internal waters, territorial sea, archipelagic waters, as well as our sovereign rights and jurisdiction over the exclusive economic zone and continental shelf,” he said.
“The law provides a clear and robust legal framework to protect and manage the Philippines’ maritime resources and entitlements, ensuring their sustainable use for the benefit of the Filipino people. In doing so, it further strengthens our legal standing in line with the 2016 Arbitral Ruling and international norms.”
He said equally important is the Philippine Archipelagic Sea Lanes Act, which enables the country to regulate the passage of foreign vessels and aircraft within its archipelagic waters.
“This legislation ensures that our maritime domain remains secure and that foreign activities within our waters are effectively regulated and conducted in a manner that respects Philippine sovereignty and national security,” he said.
“It establishes vital safeguards to protect both our maritime resources and the environment, reinforcing our responsibility to uphold the sanctity of our waters and airspace.”
Australia and the United States have publicly thrown support behind the two legislations. (PNA)