President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. on Friday reaffirmed the Philippines’ unwavering commitment to international law and a rules-based international order, emphasizing that the landmark 2016 Arbitral Award remains a vital instrument for protecting the country’s sovereign rights and preserving peace in the South China Sea.
Speaking at a diplomatic reception at the Conrad Hotel in Pasay City marking the 10th anniversary of the historic ruling, President Marcos described the award as more than a legal victory. He framed it as a “living truth” that disputes must be resolved peacefully through justice and mutual respect rather than coercion or force.
“When we defend the rule of law, we are not merely defending lines on a map. We are defending the lives, the livelihoods, and the future of our peoples,” President Marcos said, emphasizing the deeply human dimension of the ruling. “The law exists ultimately to protect the vulnerable, to shield human dignity from the whims of raw power.”
Reflecting on the country’s decision to initiate arbitration proceedings in 2013, the President noted that the Philippines deliberately chose dialogue over confrontation. He called the rule of law “the great equalizer of all nations,” ensuring justice is determined by universally accepted legal principles rather than military or economic strength.
Over the past decade, the arbitral award has become a foundational reference for the interpretation and application of the 1982 United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS). President Marcos reiterated that adherence to international law is “non-negotiable, irreplaceable, [and] non-optional” for the Philippines.
Looking forward, the Chief Executive envisioned the South China Sea not as an arena of conflict, but as a sea of peace, cooperation, and connectivity. He called upon governments, diplomats, and the international community to continue upholding international law to safeguard global peace and security.
The event was attended by high-ranking officials including Department of Foreign Affairs Secretary Ma. Theresa Lazaro, Senate President Sherwin Gatchalian, legislators, members of the Cabinet and judiciary, and the Diplomatic Corps.
