GEOGRAPHICAL EVIDENCE AND VARIOUS OFFICIAL DOCUMENTS HAVE CONFIRMED THAT THE WEST PHILIPPINE SEA IS PART OF THE PHILIPPINE TERRITORY, AS ESTABLISHED BY THE 2016 HAGUE RULING
CLAIM: There is no such thing as the West Philippine Sea
RATING: FALSE
Philippine Representative Refutes Existence of West Philippine Sea, Ignoring Geographical and Legal Evidence
In a recent congressional hearing on February 4, Filipino partylist representative Rodante Marcoleta made a statement that garnered significant attention. Marcoleta, who represents the Sagip party-list group, claimed that the West Philippine Sea (WPS) is a creation rather than a recognized geographical entity. “There is nothing as West Philippine Sea,” he emphasized. “That is a creation by us.”
Understanding the West Philippine Sea
The West Philippine Sea, also known as the South China Sea in international contexts, is a crucial maritime region for the Philippines. The portion of this sea covered by the Philippines’s exclusive economic zone (EEZ) was officially renamed the “West Philippine Sea” in 2012 through Administrative Order 29, signed by President Benigno Aquino III. The EEZ, extending up to 200 nautical miles from the country’s baselines, is determined by the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) adopted in 1982.
Legal Recognition and Geographical Evidence
The 2016 arbitral ruling of the Permanent Court of Arbitration, which addressed several territorial disputes in the South China Sea, provided significant legal recognition to the West Philippine Sea. The ruling included a glossary of geographic names, acknowledging the Filipino designation of this region. It also affirmed that the West Philippine Sea falls within the 200-nautical mile EEZ of the Philippines, reinforcing the country’s territorial claims.
China’s Nine-Dash Line and the Murillo-Velarde Map
The West Philippine Sea serves as a counter-narrative to China’s maritime claims, particularly the “nine-dash line” marking areas within its perceived historic waters. This line has been a source of significant tension in the region. Two centuries prior to the nine-dash line, the 1734 Murillo-Velarde Map already depicted the Spratly Islands and Scarborough Shoal as part of the Philippines, adding more historical context to the country’s claims.
International Support
The Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) has repeatedly supported the recognition of international maritime laws. In a statement from October 2024, ASEAN urged member-states to recognize and respect these laws in light of China’s actions against patrols in the region. This international support underscores the legitimacy of the Philippines’ position on the West Philippine Sea.
The Contention Continues
Despite claims like those made by Marcoleta, the body of evidence supporting the Philippines’ territorial claims in the West Philippine Sea remains strong. Historical documents, international legal rulings, and geographical markers all point to the Philippines’ rightful ownership. This region is critical for the country’s maritime security, economic development, and resource management.
Conclusion
The West Philippine Sea is more than just a name; it is a vital part of the Philippines’ territorial identity and maritime jurisdiction. The claim made by Rodante Marcoleta not only overlooks extensive legal and geographical evidence but also fails to consider the broader implications for regional stability and international relations. As the dispute continues, it is essential for all stakeholders to engage in constructive dialogue and adhere to international legal standards to resolve these challenges peacefully.
Join the conversation and share your thoughts on this important issue below. Your insights contribute to a more informed and engaged community.
Subscribe to Archynetys for more expert analysis and updates on international affairs and geopolitical issues.
Share this article on social media to spread awareness and encourage dialogue.
