The newly-signed Maritime Zones Act and the Archipelagic Sea Lanes Act empower the Philippine government to effectively implement its maritime laws and jurisdiction amid the conflicting claims in the West Philippine Sea, National Security Adviser Eduardo Año said on Saturday.
“These laws empower us to govern our maritime zones effectively, while promoting lawful and peaceful maritime activities,” Año said.
In a statement, the National Security Adviser thanked President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. for signing the two vital legislations, marking “a pivotal moment in fortifying our maritime sovereignty and securing our national interests.”
Año also thanked the Senate and the House of Representatives for passing the landmark legislations which are aligned with international laws and in accordance with the Philippines’ rights and obligations under the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS).
“This law provides a clear and robust legal framework to protect and manage our maritime resources and entitlements, ensuring their sustainable use for the benefit of the Filipino people,” Año said.
“In doing so, it further strengthens our legal standing in line with the 2016 Arbitral Ruling and international norms. Equally important is the Philippine Archipelagic Sea Lanes Act, which enables us to regulate the passage of foreign vessels and aircraft within our archipelagic waters,” he said.
With the Philippine Maritime Zones Act, Año said the Philippines reaffirms its sovereignty over its internal waters, territorial sea, archipelagic waters, as well as its sovereign rights and jurisdiction over the Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) and continental shelf.
The legislation ensures that the country’s maritime domain remains secure and that foreign activities within its waters are effectively regulated and conducted in a manner that respects Philippine sovereignty and national security.
“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. The enactment of these laws is a significant step toward securing the Philippines’ rights over its vast maritime territories, most especially in the West Philippine Sea,” Año said.
Año said the two maritime laws solidify the country’s territory while enhancing the ability of the Armed Forces in protecting our country against any infringement.
“As an archipelagic and maritime nation, our seas are crucial to our economic prosperity and national security,” Año pointed out.
“We are committed to working closely with all relevant stakeholders to ensure the full implementation and enforcement of these vital pieces of legislation,” he said. | PND
