When the Sovereignty at Stake, How Can The Philippines Uphold the 2016 Arbitral Ruling

Many fail to differentiate between the West Philippine Sea and the South China Sea. The West Philippine Sea is the section of the South China Sea that lies within our 200-nautical-mile Exclusive Economic Zone, granting us full rights to its natural resources. China, however, claims the entirety of the South China Sea, including our waters, based on an absurd and unfounded historical narrative. But let’s be clear: international law and historical evidence favor the Philippines. The Velarde map, published in 1734, proves that these waters have long been part of our national territory, and UNCLOS further strengthens our legal standing.

When talking about the West Philippine Sea, it should be clearer as the waters of Glan, Sarangani or Guimaras that  the West Philippine Sea belongs to the Philippines. This is not up for debate, nor should it be treated as a mere diplomatic dispute. The 2016 Arbitral Ruling, under the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS), has already validated our rightful claim, dismissing China’s so-called historical nine-dash line. Yet, China continues to disregard international law, escalating its presence in the region as if the ruling never existed. It is time we assert our sovereignty—not just in words, but in action.

When the Philippines took China to court, we fought for what was rightfully ours—and we won. The ruling made it clear: China has no legal basis for its nine-dash line, nor does it hold historical exclusive control over the region. The Spratly Islands, particularly the Kalayaan Island Group, are within our EEZ, reinforcing our sovereign rights. But what good is a legal victory if we fail to implement it?

To truly benefit from this ruling, we must take decisive action. How? We must rally the international community, especially ASEAN nations, to pressure China into compliance. By aligning with countries that respect international law, we strengthen our position and discourage further aggression. The Philippines must lead discussions within regional summits, such as the ASEAN Regional Forum and the East Asia Summit, to promote the enforcement of international rulings. Furthermore, we should seek the support of global superpowers like the United States, Japan, Australia, and the European Union—nations that have consistently advocated for a rules-based international order. Forming coalitions and establishing stronger diplomatic ties will ensure that China faces continuous global pressure to comply with international law.

For too long, we have allowed China to ignore the ruling while aggressively expanding its presence. Enough is enough. The West Philippine Sea is ours, and we must act with conviction to enforce our rights. The 2016 Arbitral Ruling is not just a piece of paper—it is a legal weapon. We must wield it with authority, with strategy, and with the unwavering determination to protect what is rightfully ours.

The world is watching. The question is: will we stand firm, or will we allow ourselves to be bullied into submission? The answer is clear—we must stand our ground. And because the Philippines is a democratic country, I think it’s up to us not to listen to nuisance voices of people with conflicting interests and fake patriotic attitudes.