The National Maritime Council (NMC) has reiterated that the 2016 arbitral ruling that invalidated China’s expansive claims in the South China Sea remains final and legally binding, as the Philippines continues to anchor its maritime position on international law.
In a statement issued Wednesday, the NMC echoed the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) position that the country’s actions and exercise of rights in the West Philippine Sea are grounded on the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS), as interpreted by the landmark ruling of the Permanent Court of Arbitration (PCA).
The tribunal’s decision, issued under Annex VII of UNCLOS, ruled in favor of the Philippines in 2016 and invalidated China’s so-called “nine-dash line” claim covering nearly the entire South China Sea.
“The Award is final and legally binding on the parties and remains an important contribution to international law and the rules-based international order,” the NMC said, adding that the ruling continues to provide legal clarity on maritime entitlements and the interpretation of UNCLOS.
The council said the arbitral award clarified the legal status of maritime features in the disputed waters, affirmed the rights of coastal states, rejected claims inconsistent with the convention, and emphasized obligations to protect the marine environment.
It also described the ruling as an authoritative reference for “peaceful, stable, and predictable governance of the oceans,” noting its continued relevance a decade after its issuance.
“As the Philippines commemorates the tenth anniversary of the Arbitral Award on 12 July 2026, we recognize its enduring significance not only to the Philippines but also to the international community,” the NMC said.
The council stressed that Manila remains committed to diplomacy and the peaceful resolution of disputes, adding that upholding the ruling should not be viewed as an obstacle to constructive international relations.
Rather, it said the decision reinforces legal certainty, encourages responsible state conduct, and supports regional peace and stability.
“As a maritime and archipelagic nation, the Philippines will continue to pursue diplomacy from a position of principle—guided by international law, committed to peace, and steadfast in safeguarding its lawful maritime rights and interests,” it added.
Beijing, however, has repeatedly rejected the ruling. The Chinese Embassy in Manila has previously described the arbitral award as a “political farce disguised in legal clothing,” insisting that the Philippines undermined bilateral mechanisms by pursuing arbitration instead of direct negotiations.