Philippine President Signs New Laws to Secure Sea Rights Amid China Tensions

Published on November 9, 2024

Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. on Nov. 8 signed two new laws to strengthen Manila’s maritime sovereignty and establish sea lanes for passing foreign vessels—a move that drew ire from Beijing. During a signing ceremony attended by Philippine lawmakers and senior officials, Marcos said the new laws would strengthen the country’s economic development and national security policies. “Our people, especially our fisherfolk, should be able to pursue their livelihood free from uncertainty and harassment,” the president said. “We must be able to harness mineral and energy resources in our seabed.” The Philippine Maritime Zones Act defines the waters and airspace within Philippine territory. It also clarifies the surrounding areas where the country holds sovereignty and jurisdiction in accordance with international law, including the U.N. Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS)....