China objects to new Philippine maritime laws News
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China objects to new Philippine maritime laws

China expressed on Friday its strong objections to two new Philippine laws that define the country’s maritime boundaries over disputed areas in the South China Sea, summoning the Philippines’ ambassador.

The Philippine Maritime Zones Act (RA 12064) and the Philippine Archipelagic Sea Lanes Act (RA 12065) were signed into law by President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. on Friday to assert the country’s rights and responsibilities within its maritime zones.

In response to these laws, China’s Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning said at a press conference that the introduction of the new acts infringes on China’s territorial sovereignty and maritime rights in the South China Sea. In an official statement, the Foreign Ministry strongly condemned the laws, emphasizing that China’s territorial sovereignty and maritime rights in the region have historical and legal foundations in accordance with international law, including the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS).

Regarding the Philippine Archipelagic Sea Lanes Act, China criticized certain provisions as inconsistent with international law and resolutions of the International Maritime Organization. China urged the Philippines to abide by international law and respect the rights of all parties under UNCLOS.

The Philippine Maritime Zones Act purports to define the country’s maritime zones, including internal waters, archipelagic waters, territorial sea, contiguous zone, exclusive economic zone (EEZ), and continental shelf. According to the Philippines, the law establishes the Philippines’ sovereign rights to explore and exploit resources within these zones in compliance with UNCLOS and previous legal agreements.

The Philippine Archipelagic Sea Lanes Act aims to designate sea lanes and air routes for foreign ships and aircraft to pass through Philippine waters, setting out rights and obligations for their passage.

President Marcos emphasized that these laws are essential for clarifying the country’s rights and duties, ensuring a secure environment for activities such as fishing and resource exploration in Philippine waters.

The conflict maritime claims follow a 2016 ruling by the Permanent Court of Arbitration at the Hague, which found some of China’s maritime claims in the South China Sea unlawful. While the Philippines initiated the arbitration process, China has consistently rejected the ruling, stating that it violates international law and undermines UNCLOS.

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