Philippines Urges Compliance with 2016 South China Sea Arbitration Ruling

On July 11, 2025, the Philippines reiterated its call for China to adhere to the landmark arbitration ruling issued by The Hague tribunal nine years ago, which invalidated Beijing's extensive territorial claims in the South China Sea. This appeal was made by Foreign Secretary Theresa Lazaro during a forum organized by the Stratbase ADR Institute, coinciding with the anniversary of the ruling that has been described as a pivotal moment in upholding international maritime law.

Lazaro emphasized that all nations, irrespective of their power or influence, are bound by their obligations under international law. "Nine years hence, its legitimacy continues to be tested, challenged, and subverted, putting not only the Philippines’ maritime interests in peril but also the regional stability and prosperity we are all working so hard to achieve," she stated in a video address. The ruling, which is viewed as a cornerstone of Philippine maritime policy, corresponds with the 1982 United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS).

The tribunal's decision, which China has refused to acknowledge, confirmed the Philippines' sovereign rights over certain maritime zones in the South China Sea. Since the ruling, China has engaged in aggressive maritime actions, including encounters with Philippine vessels that have led to heightened tensions in the region. These encounters involve the use of water cannons and other forms of intimidation against Philippine ships, which China claims are infringing upon its territorial waters.

Lazaro pointed out that the South China Sea is not only significant for the Philippines but is also a contested area among several Southeast Asian nations, including Vietnam, Malaysia, Brunei, and Taiwan, all of which have competing claims. The waters are rich in resources, further complicating the geopolitical landscape.

In outlining the Philippines’ approach to its maritime strategy, Lazaro introduced four guiding principles, which include fostering alliances with countries that share similar views and maintaining open lines of communication with both China and other ASEAN member states. She asserted that diplomacy plays a crucial role in maintaining peace and stability, underscoring that deterrence must not solely rely on military might.

Lazaro described the tribunal’s ruling as a testament to the effectiveness of UNCLOS’s dispute resolution mechanisms, emphasizing that it is an integral part of the international legal framework. However, she expressed concern over China’s continued dismissal of the ruling, describing its actions as illegal and coercive.

Despite these tensions, Lazaro advocated for continued dialogue with China, citing previous diplomatic efforts that have yielded positive outcomes, such as agreements to ensure the safe delivery of supplies to Filipino forces stationed at Ayungin Shoal. She noted that successful diplomatic engagements have allowed for peaceful resupply missions, demonstrating the potential for collaboration amid disagreements.

Furthermore, the Philippines is working towards establishing a regional code of conduct in the South China Sea, which it hopes to finalize during its upcoming chairmanship of ASEAN. Lazaro concluded by reaffirming the Philippines’ commitment to uphold international law and reject any attempts to undermine the tribunal’s ruling, underscoring the importance of solidarity among nations to resist unfounded maritime claims.

The ongoing situation in the South China Sea highlights the intricate balance of power in Southeast Asia and the critical role that international law plays in resolving disputes. As the Philippines navigates these challenges, its approach will likely continue to influence regional dynamics and maritime governance in the coming years.