Philippines Enacts Maritime Zones and Sea Lanes Laws

The Philippines has enacted two significant maritime laws, the Philippine Maritime Zones Act and the Philippine Archipelagic Sea Lanes Act, aimed at asserting its territorial claims in the West Philippine Sea. Signed by President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., these laws are viewed as a response to the 2016 Hague ruling that favored the Philippines in its maritime disputes with China. The laws define the country's maritime zones and establish designated sea lanes for foreign vessels, which proponents argue will strengthen national sovereignty and international recognition. However, China has condemned the legislation, asserting that it infringes on its territorial sovereignty and may escalate tensions in the region. Analysts suggest these laws could garner international support for the Philippines but anticipate strong backlash from China. Chinese experts argue that the laws violate international maritime norms, particularly the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS).