Leyte 1st District Representative Ferdinand Martin Romualdez is asking all Filipinos to stay united in protecting the country’s rights in the West Philippine Sea. He made this call as the Philippines marked the 9th anniversary of the 2016 Arbitral Award, which rejected China’s wide sea claims.
Romualdez, who was the Speaker during the 19th Congress, said the ruling from the Permanent Court of Arbitration in The Hague was a big win for the Philippines. It proved that the country has legal rights over its waters based on international law.
He said, “The West Philippine Sea is ours, not because we are strong, but because the law says it belongs to us.”
The ruling, released on July 12, 2016, said China’s “nine-dash line” claim has no legal basis and confirmed that the Philippines has rights in its exclusive economic zone, as per the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS).
Romualdez said the decision is still very important today and warned against those who try to ignore or weaken its meaning.
He added, “The award is final and binding. It protects our rights and shows the strength of the Filipino people.”
Romualdez also supported President Marcos’ efforts to uphold the ruling and to work with other countries that follow international law.
He reminded everyone to watch out for fake news and to stay firm and united in protecting the country’s rights.
“This is about our country’s freedom, our pride, and our future,” he said. “We must show our loyalty to the Philippines not just through words, but through action.”
