China has firmly voiced its objections to two recently signed Philippine laws, which delineate maritime zones over contested territories in the South China Sea. The opposition comes via an official statement from China’s Foreign Ministry, highlighting perceived infringements on China’s territorial sovereignty and maritime rights in the region.
The contested legislation includes the Philippine Maritime Zones Act (RA 12064) and the Philippine Archipelagic Sea Lanes Act (RA 12065), which were signed by President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. The Philippine Maritime Zones Act outlines the nation’s internal waters, archipelagic waters, territorial seas, contiguous zones, exclusive economic zones (EEZ), and continental shelves. The legislation asserts the Philippines’ rights to exhaustively utilize resources within these zones under international law, including the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS).
Similarly, the Philippine Archipelagic Sea Lanes Act governs sea and air transit lanes for foreign vessels and aircraft through Philippine seas, stipulating associated rights and obligations. China has criticized provisions within this act, claiming inconsistencies with international law and International Maritime Organization resolutions.
Despite China’s objections, President Marcos has underscored the necessity of these laws for asserting national rights and ensuring a secure regime for marine resource activities. This legislative move follows a key 2016 ruling by the Permanent Court of Arbitration in The Hague, refuting several Chinese claims in the South China Sea. Nevertheless, China has consistently rebuffed the ruling, arguing it undermines international law and UNCLOS.
The geopolitical friction in the South China Sea remains a complex issue, marked by conflicting territorial claims and interpretations of maritime law, impacting regional stability and international maritime activities. For more detailed coverage, see the full article on JURIST.