MANILA, Philippines — The dispute over the sovereignty of the West Philippine Sea, a portion of the South China Sea, is a complex issue involving several countries. However, the case for Philippine sovereignty over this maritime area is strong, both historically and legally.
Historically, the Philippines has exercised jurisdiction and control over the West Philippine Sea for centuries. This area has been integral to the livelihoods of Filipino fishermen, and it forms part of the country’s identity and heritage. The Philippines’ claim is grounded in its historical usage and administration of these waters and the islands within them.
Legally, the Philippines’ claim is reinforced by the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS), which establishes guidelines for maritime rights and sovereignty. The Philippines, a signatory to UNCLOS, bases its claim on the exclusive economic zone (EEZ), which grants the country sovereign rights over resources within 200 nautical miles from its baseline. Most of the West Philippine Sea falls within the Philippines’ EEZ, making its claim consistent with international law.
The Philippines’ stance was further legitimized by the 2016 ruling of the Permanent Court of Arbitration in The Hague. The tribunal dismissed China’s expansive “nine-dash line” claim, which encroaches upon the exclusive economic zones of several Southeast Asian nations, including the Philippines. The court ruled that China’s claims had no legal basis under UNCLOS, affirming the Philippines’ rights over its EEZ in the West Philippine Sea.
Despite the clear historical and legal basis for Philippine sovereignty over the West Philippine Sea, the dispute remains contentious due to geopolitical interests. Nonetheless, the international community’s support for the rule of law and the 2016 tribunal ruling strengthens the Philippines’ position. Upholding these principles is essential for maintaining peace, stability, and respect for sovereign rights in the region.
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