Philippines Enacts Maritime Laws Amid China's Opposition

The Philippines has enacted two significant maritime laws, the Maritime Zones Act and the Archipelagic Sea Lanes Act, aimed at asserting its sovereignty and aligning with international law following a 2016 ruling favoring its claims in the South China Sea. National Security Council spokesman Jonathan Malaya emphasized that these laws reaffirm the Philippines' rights and are compliant with the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS). In response, China expressed its opposition, claiming the laws reinforce an 'illegal arbitral award' and subsequently summoned the Philippine ambassador to voice its objections. President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. stated that China's reaction was 'not unexpected' and underscored the need for clearer maritime boundaries to alleviate tensions. The Philippines aims to define its maritime areas more closely while also ensuring the freedom of navigation through designated sea lanes. This geopolitical standoff continues to reflect the complex dynamics of sovereignty and regional security in the contested waters of the South China Sea.