The Philippines must prioritize the 2016 arbitral ruling in ongoing negotiations regarding a Code of Conduct in the South China Sea, according to Stratbase Institute President Victor Andres “Dindo” Manhit.
Legal Foundation for Negotiations
Any Code of Conduct must uphold the Arbitral Award as the legal baseline, not treat it as a point for negotiation.
Victor Andres “Dindo” Manhit, Stratbase Institute President
Manhit's remarks were made during a forum commemorating the 10th anniversary of the 2016 ruling, which invalidated China's expansive claims in the South China Sea.
The ruling stemmed from a 2012 confrontation between Chinese and Philippine ships at Scarborough Shoal. It determined that China's nine-dash line claims were invalid under the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea.
Manhit expressed concern that any agreement compromising the ruling could undermine the Code of Conduct's integrity. He warned that negotiating away the arbitral award might jeopardize the Philippines' sovereign rights.
Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro echoed this sentiment, emphasizing that the arbitral ruling is a matter of national interest, not a political issue. He noted that the ruling has reinforced international support for the Philippines' maritime rights.
Teodoro highlighted the ruling's role in shaping the Philippines' defense strategies and fostering partnerships with allies, essential for bolstering regional security.
Armed Forces chief Gen. Romeo Brawner Jr. commended military personnel stationed in contested waters for their professionalism during encounters with Chinese vessels.
Reflecting on the ruling's impact, Manhit asserted that the anniversary serves as a reminder of the importance of maintaining the legal victories achieved and the need for vigilance in protecting maritime rights.