Senator Win Gatchalian emphasized that with Congress ratifying the proposed measure, the Philippines has taken a significant stride towards formally declaring its maritime zones, awaiting only the signature of the President to solidify this crucial step.
Gatchalian asserted that the implementation of this measure will fortify the nation’s stance on the West Philippine Sea, crucially important in the face of ongoing Chinese aggression against the Philippine Coast Guard and Filipino fishermen despite the country’s relentless diplomatic protests.
“We have full confidence in the swift enactment of this measure into law, as it stands poised to strengthen the country’s legal framework, bolstering its ability to assert and defend its maritime sovereignty,” said Gatchalian, a co-author of the proposed legislation.
The measure stands as a formidable shield, safeguarding the rights of Filipino fishermen to the abundant resources of the West Philippine Sea, including the vast wealth of untapped energy resources lying within its domain, according to Gatchalian.
“Once enacted into law, the measure would strengthen our position and rights over the West Philippine Sea, which was already established by our victory in the 2016 arbitral ruling,” the senator emphasized.
“Establishing the country’s maritime zone is necessary to reinforce the country’s security framework over our territorial waters as well as protect and harness the potential of our marine resources, he concluded.
