Manila: The Department of Agriculture (DA) on Friday expressed its support for the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) in its initiative to secure Senate concurrence for the ratification of the Agreement on the Conservation and Sustainable Use of Marine Biological Diversity of Areas Beyond National Jurisdiction (BBNJ).

According to Philippines News Agency, the BBNJ Agreement, adopted under the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS), is designed to conserve biodiversity on the high seas and promote sustainable management of marine resources beyond national jurisdictions. Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr. emphasized the treaty's importance in enhancing global marine protection.

Laurel highlighted that the BBNJ Agreement is essential for the conservation and sustainable management of marine biodiversity in regions beyond the Philippines' jurisdiction. He noted that the treaty would enable the country to protect its rich marine ecosystems while ensuring fair access to and equitable sharing of benefits from marine genetic resources.

Currently, the BBNJ Agreement is in the process of obtaining Senate concurrence. The Philippines is one of the early signatories and advocates for its swift ratification. Globally, 55 out of the required 60 ratifications for the treaty's entry into force have been secured. A special treaty event is scheduled in the UN General Assembly for late September 2025 to possibly reach the ratification target.