On Friday, November 8, 2024, President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. signed the New Philippine Maritime Laws, specifically the Maritime Zones Act and the Archipelagic Sea Lanes Act. These laws aim to establish the nation’s maritime rights, designate specific sea lanes and air routes, and strengthen sovereignty.
Marcos emphasized that Filipinos, particularly fishermen, should be able to pursue their livelihoods without uncertainty or harassment and that the Philippines must have the right to access mineral and energy resources within its seabed.
In a show of commitment to territorial defense, the Philippine military recently launched large-scale combat drills in the South China Sea, including live-fire drills, beach landings, and island-seizing simulations.
Chinese Opposition to New Philippine Maritime Laws
China summoned the Philippine ambassador to protest the New Philippine Maritime Laws and expressed strong opposition, viewing these laws as an infringement on its territorial claims in disputed South China Sea areas. Beijing urged the Philippines to respect China’s sovereignty and avoid unilateral actions that might escalate tensions. China’s Foreign Ministry spokesperson, Mao Ning, specifically cited that the Maritime Zones law “illegally includes” China’s claimed territories, referring to Scarborough Shoal and the Spratly Islands. Beijing has consistently rejected the 2016 Permanent Court of Arbitration ruling, which invalidated its expansive South China Sea claims.
Beijing frequently deploys its coast guard to assert claims in overlapping Exclusive Economic Zones (EEZs) with neighboring countries, leading to recent clashes with the Philippines. Philippine officials acknowledge the challenges of enforcing the new laws. Senator Francis Tolentino noted that while China may not recognize these measures, gaining international support could bolster the Philippines’ position.
United States Backs Philippine Stance
The United States expressed support for the Philippines following the enactment of the New Philippine Maritime Laws. As a key Philippine ally, the U.S. stands by the 2016 court ruling and supports Manila’s efforts to reinforce maritime law. State Department spokesperson Matthew Miller stated that the Maritime Zones Act is a routine step that brings further clarity to Philippine maritime law. Trump’s election win is expected to shift U.S. foreign policy, potentially affecting alliances like the U.S.-Philippines partnership and their stance on China in the South China Sea.
Marcos reiterated that these new laws, defining maritime entitlements and setting designated sea lanes, demonstrate the Philippines’ commitment to a rules-based international order and the peaceful use of resources within its EEZ.
