The West Philippine Sea Economic Territories Matters

The concerns of the Philippines regarding the West Philippine Sea also called the South China Sea are centered on the ongoing territorial disputes and assertive actions by China in the region. The Philippines, along with other neighboring countries, has overlapping territorial claims in the South China Sea, which have led to tensions and geopolitical complexities.

The Philippines is concerned about China's increasing presence, including the construction of artificial islands, the militarization of features, and the imposition of fishing restrictions in areas that the Philippines considers to be within its exclusive economic zone (EEZ) as defined by international law, particularly the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS).

These actions by China have raised concerns about the freedom of navigation, the potential depletion of marine resources, and the impact on the livelihoods of Filipino fishermen who rely on these waters for their sustenance. The Philippines has sought to address these concerns through diplomatic channels, international arbitration, and engagement with other countries in the region to find a peaceful and rules-based resolution to the disputes.

It is worth noting that the West Philippine Sea or South China Sea issue is complex and involves multiple stakeholders with competing interests. The Philippines has advocated for a multilateral and collaborative approach, emphasizing the importance of upholding international law, including the UNCLOS, as the framework for resolving disputes and ensuring the stability and security of the region.

The concerns of the Philippines in the South China Sea highlight the need for continued diplomatic efforts, dialogue, and adherence to international legal norms to find a peaceful and equitable resolution to the disputes. It is crucial to prioritize dialogue, mutual respect, and the preservation of regional stability while safeguarding the rights and interests of all parties involved.