Philippine lawmakers united to commemorate the 10th anniversary of the 2016 Permanent Court of Arbitration ruling, a landmark decision that dismissed China’s sweeping “nine-dash line” claims and validated Manila’s sovereign rights over its 200-nautical-mile exclusive economic zone (EEZ).
Senator Risa Hontiveros praised the nation’s enduring resolve against foreign aggression, highlighting the legal triumph as a global example of standing up for territorial integrity.
“Ten (10) years ago today, the Philippines showed the world what it means to stand up to a giant, and win. The 2016 Hague Ruling still stands, affirming that China’s nine-dash line has absolutely no basis in international law,” she stated.
Hontiveros stressed the importance of remaining vigilant against persistent foreign intrusions and propaganda campaigns, particularly pointing out provocative rhetoric from Chinese academics regarding the northern province of Batanes.
“Mahalaga na ipagdiwang ang araw na ito dahil hindi tumitigil ang Tsina sa pang-aangkin ng hindi kanya,” she said.
“Huwag nating kalimutan na lumaban tayo sa isang dambuhala nang mapayapa at may dignidad. Ipagmalaki natin sa buong mundo na ang Pilipinas ay isang bansa na tumindig para sa tama at sa totoo.”
Shifting the focus to the frontline communities, Senator Francis “Kiko” Pangilinan paid tribute to the citizens and personnel safeguarding the country’s remote outposts in the West Philippine Sea.
“On this 10th anniversary of our victory at the arbitral tribunal, we salute…every resident of Pag-asa and the Kalayaan Island Group—our fellow Filipinos who quietly defend the Republic through the simple yet extraordinary decision to live on the island,” he said.
Pangilinan emphasized that the legal victory must translate into tangible security and prosperity for everyday citizens.
“Our victory in The Hague is just the beginning. True victory will come when our fellow Filipinos can live, fish, and dream freely and without fear in the West Philippine Sea; when hope and freedom are no longer merely the names of islands, but a reality lived out by every Filipino,” he stressed.
Echoing these sentiments, Senator Bam Aquino reiterated that defending maritime territories is directly linked to the economic survival of local communities and national stability.
“Beyond the issue of territory, this is a matter concerning the livelihoods of our fisherfolk, the security of our seas, and the future of our nation,” Aquino remarked.
“In every issue regarding the West Philippine Sea, the Filipino must come first. Truth, the rule of law, and the national interest of the Philippines will prevail.”