Philippines Enacts New Maritime Laws to Counter China’s Claims
The Philippines, led by President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., has introduced two new maritime laws: the Philippine Maritime Zones Act and the Philippine Archipelagic Sea Lanes Act. These laws aim to protect the nation’s contested territories in the South China Sea. The Maritime Zones Act establishes specific routes over the Philippines’ waters and airspace, aligning with the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS).
Experts view these laws as part of a strategy to counter China’s assertiveness in the region. Raymond Powell from Stanford University describes this as a critical step in “lawfare,” using legal means to challenge China’s maritime claims, particularly in areas like the Scarborough Shoal and the Second Thomas Shoal.
China, which claims near-total control over the South China Sea, has objected to these laws, calling them a “serious violation” and a threat to regional stability. Malaysia has also raised concerns, but China’s actions pose the most significant challenge to the Philippines’ sovereignty.
Despite tensions, experts believe the new laws provide the Philippines with leverage to assert its sovereignty. The Philippines has also strengthened its partnership with the United States, resuming joint naval exercises and granting U.S. forces greater access to military bases.
As the Philippines navigates these challenges, the new maritime laws demonstrate its commitment to asserting its rights in the South China Sea.
Doubts Revealed
Philippines -: The Philippines is a country in Southeast Asia made up of many islands. It is located in the western Pacific Ocean.
Maritime Laws -: Maritime laws are rules that govern activities on the sea. They help countries manage their waters and protect their rights over them.
South China Sea -: The South China Sea is a large sea in Asia, surrounded by countries like China, the Philippines, and Vietnam. It is important for trade and has many natural resources.
Ferdinand Marcos Jr. -: Ferdinand Marcos Jr. is the President of the Philippines. He is responsible for making important decisions for the country.
Philippine Maritime Zones Act -: This is a new law in the Philippines that helps define the areas of the sea that belong to the country. It helps protect the Philippines’ rights over its waters.
Philippine Archipelagic Sea Lanes Act -: This law sets specific routes for ships to travel through the waters of the Philippines. It ensures safe and legal passage for ships.
International Law -: International law is a set of rules that countries agree to follow. It helps maintain peace and order between nations.
China’s Assertiveness -: China’s assertiveness refers to its strong actions and claims over the South China Sea, which sometimes conflict with other countries’ rights.
U.S. Defense Capabilities -: The U.S. has a strong military, and the Philippines is working with them to improve its own defense. This helps the Philippines protect itself better.
