Manila: A resolution has been filed at the House of Representatives calling on all sectors of society to commemorate the 10th anniversary of the July 12, 2016 Arbitral Award on the South China Sea (SCS).
According to Philippines News Agency, House Resolution (HR) 1013, introduced by Malabon Representative Antolin Oreta III, suggests that the commemoration could involve activities that promote awareness of the Arbitral Award, respect for international law, and a deeper understanding of the country's maritime heritage. The resolution encourages government institutions, the academic community, civil society, youth organizations, and the general public to honor the Philippines' legal and diplomatic victory while reaffirming the country's sovereignty, commitment to international law, the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS), and the peaceful settlement of disputes.
Oreta, who serves as the chair of the House Special Committee on the West Philippine Sea (WPS), emphasized that HR 1013 aims to highlight the significance of the 2016 Arbitral Award as one of the country's most consequential legal victories. A statement from the House on Thursday indicated that the ruling affirmed the Philippines' maritime entitlements under international law and reinforced the rules-based international order governing the world's oceans.
HR 1013 has progressed in the legislative process after being adopted by the House Special Committee on the West Philippine Sea on May 25. The committee has since submitted its report to the House of Representatives, and the measure is awaiting plenary action when Congress resumes session. "As the nation commemorates this historic achievement, the Philippines renews its steadfast commitment to diplomacy, adherence to international law, and the peaceful resolution of disputes," the resolution states.
Oreta asserts that the 2016 Arbitral Award continues to serve as a beacon of hope, demonstrating that justice can prevail through the rule of law and that principled leadership can secure a better future for generations of Filipinos.
