Manila, Philippines – The National Maritime Council (NMC) has expressed support for the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) statement that the nearly 10-year old 2016 South China Sea (SCS) Arbitral Ruling, will never be considered illegal, null and void.
This follows the statement by the Chinese Embassy in Manila that Beijing considers the said Arbitration Award awarded to the Philippines in 2016 to be null and void.
The final binding ruling states that it does not recognize Beijing’s jurisdiction over the entire South China Sea, something China continues to disobey due to the continued intrusion of Chinese vessels into Philippine waters.
According to the NMC, the Philippines’ position on the disputed territory is clear and consistent.
Manila’s maritime rights and entitlements are based on international law, particularly the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS), and are affirmed by the Arbitral Award.
This binding agreement continues to provide legal clarity on the interpretation and application of UNCLOS, including the legal status of maritime features, maritime claims and marine environments.
In a statement issued by the Chinese embassy in Manila, it stood firm in rejecting the said Arbitral Award, because Beijing believes it is politically motivated.
However, the Philippines remains committed to dialogue, diplomacy and peaceful resolution of the dispute.