MANILA — President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. on Friday signed two significant laws aimed at bolstering the Philippines' sovereignty and rights over its maritime zones, as tensions continue to rise in the West Philippine Sea. The Philippine Maritime Zones Act (RA 12064) and the Philippine Archipelagic Sea Lanes Act (RA 12065) are seen as crucial steps in asserting the country's maritime entitlements amid ongoing disputes with China over territorial claims in the region.
“These laws reflect our unwavering commitment to safeguarding our maritime domain, ensuring the safety and well-being of our people, and reaffirming our identity as a maritime nation,” Marcos said in a statement following the signing.
Philippine Maritime Zones Act: Defining Sovereignty at Sea
RA 12064, the Philippine Maritime Zones Act, clearly defines the full extent of the country’s maritime entitlements, in line with the Philippine Constitution and the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS). The law delineates the Philippines' internal waters, archipelagic waters, territorial sea, contiguous zone, exclusive economic zone (EEZ), and continental shelf.
“This is a critical step in defining the boundaries of our maritime jurisdiction,” President Marcos stated. “By establishing these boundaries, we ensure that our citizens, especially our fisherfolk, can pursue their livelihoods with certainty and security, free from harassment and encroachment. Our people deserve to harness the vast resources of our seas—whether for fishing, energy, or mineral extraction—without fear of unlawful interference.”
The law also reaffirms the Philippines’ commitment to upholding the 2016 arbitral ruling in favor of the country’s maritime rights, which invalidated China’s expansive claims in the South China Sea. Marcos emphasized that the Philippines will continue to rely on international law as the cornerstone of its maritime policies.
“We are firm in our resolve to protect our sovereignty, and by defining our maritime zones, we send a strong message to the world that we are committed to nurturing and safeguarding our maritime heritage,” he added.
Philippine Archipelagic Sea Lanes Act: Facilitating Safe and Regulated Passage
The Philippine Archipelagic Sea Lanes Act (RA 12065) establishes three designated sea lanes through the Philippine archipelago, which will be open to foreign vessels and aircraft for peaceful transit. However, these sea lanes are subject to national security regulations, ensuring that foreign passage does not compromise the country’s safety or sovereignty.
“These sea lanes will facilitate the uninterrupted movement of ships and aircraft, ensuring expeditious and safe passage for international commerce and air traffic,” Marcos said. “At the same time, we will ensure that all vessels and aircraft comply with our established navigational rules and safety protocols.”
The law also reinforces the Philippines’ commitment to UNCLOS and upholds the principle of “mutual respect” in maritime relations, particularly with neighboring states and global powers.
Strengthening Enforcement and Coordination
In his remarks, Marcos called on relevant government agencies and local authorities to review their regulations in light of these new laws and take necessary steps to ensure their effective implementation.
“These laws will not only enhance our domestic legal framework but will also allow us to more effectively enforce maritime policies, protect marine resources, and secure our territorial waters against illegal activities,” he said. “I urge all concerned sectors to work together for the successful implementation of these measures.”
A Renewed Commitment to Defending Philippine Waters
With China maintaining a growing presence in the West Philippine Sea, the signing of these two laws comes as a significant move to strengthen the Philippines' maritime defense posture. The Department of Foreign Affairs highlighted that these measures will help protect the country’s marine biodiversity, preserve the environment, and enhance maritime safety and security.
Marcos concluded by stressing that the new laws mark an important step in the country’s long-term strategy to defend its maritime interests. “It is my hope that these measures will not only help us assert our rights at sea but also pave the way for a more prosperous and secure future for the Philippines,” he said. “Together, we can navigate toward a stronger and more sovereign nation in the waters that define us.”