An assertion by former Cavite 4th District Representative Kiko Barzaga claiming that international law does not support the Philippines’ rights to the West Philippine Sea (WPS) has been fact-checked and ruled as false.
Legal Framework of the West Philippine Sea
The Philippines' claim over the WPS is solidly backed by the 1982 United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS). This international treaty grants the Philippines, like other coastal nations, sovereign rights within its 200-nautical-mile exclusive economic zone (EEZ).
There is no legal basis for the West Philippine Sea in International Law, naghahanap lang talaga ng gulo ang Philippine Coast Guard! — Kiko Barzaga, Former Representative
Barzaga's statement, made on June 22, has drawn significant attention, receiving over 3,200 reactions and extensive shares on social media. However, the legal basis for the Philippines' claim was underscored in a landmark 2016 ruling by the Permanent Court of Arbitration.
The PCA ruling confirmed that China had infringed upon the Philippines' rights through actions such as interfering with fishing and constructing artificial islands.
Continued Disinformation and Response
The Philippine Coast Guard has reiterated its position on international law, asserting its commitment to defend the nation's rights in the WPS. In a February 2026 interview, Rear Admiral Jay Tarriela emphasized the importance of international support against Chinese aggression.
The Philippines' Department of Foreign Affairs recently responded to Chinese claims, asserting that the 2016 arbitral award is final and binding under international law.
Concerns about disinformation surrounding the WPS have been raised, particularly regarding narratives that undermine the Philippines' legal victories. Retired Supreme Court Justice Antonio Carpio has urged Filipinos to actively counter such misinformation.