PBBM SIGNS LAWS ON ARCHIPELAGIC SEA LANES, PH MARITIME ZONES

PRESIDENT Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. on Friday signed into law two measures to reinforce the Philippines’ entitlement and responsibility within its maritime zones.

The President signed the Philippine Maritime Zones Act and the Philippine Archipelagic Sea Lanes Act, which, he said, are “significant laws that emphasize the importance of our maritime and archipelagic identity.”

“With these pieces of legislation, we align our domestic laws with international law, specifically the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea or UNCLOS, improve our capacity for governance, and reinforce our maritime policies for economic development and for national security,” he said at the ceremonial signing in Malacañang.

The Philippine Maritime Zones Act declares the Philippines’ maritime zones in accordance with the standards set by the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS).

It also seeks to designate the country’s archipelagic sea lanes, which would create routes over the country’s waters and airspace.

According to the President, the measure is vital in ensuring that the country’s rights and duties are well-defined.

“Our people, especially our fisherfolk, should be able to pursue their livelihood free from uncertainty and harassment. We must be able to harness mineral and energy resources in our seabed” President Marcos said.

He stressed that asserting the country’s maritime zones also projects to the international community the Philippines’ commitment to nurturing, cultivating and protecting the country’s maritime domain.

Meanwhile, the Philippine Archipelagic Sea Lanes Act, establishes a system of archipelagic sea lanes and air routes, through which foreign vessels and aircraft shall exercise the right of archipelagic sea lanes passage.

“The designated archipelagic sea lanes and air routes aim to facilitate safe passage for foreign ships and aircraft without compromising our national security nor diminishing our capacity for good environmental stewardship,” he said.

The Chief Executive said the two laws will impact domestic laws and regulations at the national and local level.

He hoped the measures would allow the country continue to defend its territory.“It is my fervent hope that with the help of these two laws, we will continue to pursue and defend our maritime interests and navigate towards a brighter and stronger Bagong Pilipinas,” he said.