Philippines to uphold 2016 arbitral ruling against China despite Beijing's increasing assertiveness in South China Sea.

The Philippines will uphold the 2016 arbitral ruling against China, according to Foreign Affairs Secretary Enrique Manalo. The ruling, which was issued by a UN-backed tribunal, declared China's claims to most of the South China Sea as invalid. The Philippines has long sought to assert its sovereignty over the disputed waters, which are believed to have significant oil and gas reserves.

Manila, Philippines — Foreign Affairs Secretary Enrique Manalo has reiterated the Philippines' commitment to upholding the 2016 arbitral ruling against China. The ruling, issued by a UN-backed tribunal, declared China's expansive claims to most of the South China Sea invalid. This decision, which is legally binding on both the Philippines and China, has significant implications for the region's geopolitical landscape and economic interests.

The 2016 ruling, which was issued by the Permanent Court of Arbitration, found that China's claims to the South China Sea were not supported by international law. The tribunal also ruled that China's actions, including the construction of artificial islands and the harassment of fishermen, were in violation of UNCLOS and other international maritime laws. The Philippines, which brought the case, has long sought to assert its sovereignty over the disputed waters, which are believed to contain significant oil and gas reserves.

Despite the ruling, China has continued to assert its claims and take increasingly aggressive actions against its neighbors. In recent months, tensions have escalated, with incidents of Chinese vessels harassing Philippine fishermen and the Philippine government summoning the Chinese ambassador in response to sanctions imposed on former senator Francis Tolentino.

The United States, a key ally of the Philippines, has also expressed its support for the 2016 ruling and has called on China to abide by the decision. U.S. Pacific Fleet Commander Adm. Stephen Koehler has stated that China's bullying tactics in the South China Sea have not worked and that other nations are boosting their maritime power in response.

The Philippines has taken steps to strengthen its forces and territorial defense in response to the ongoing tensions. The country is pursuing legislation to demarcate the limits of its territory and has moved to enhance its maritime capabilities. However, Foreign Secretary Theresa Lazaro has stated that it is a strategic consideration to continue the dialogue and consultation with China, even amidst the tensions.

The 2016 arbitral ruling is a significant milestone in the ongoing disputes in the South China Sea. It sets a precedent for the peaceful resolution of maritime disputes and underscores the importance of adhering to international law. As the Philippines continues to uphold the ruling, it is essential to maintain a diplomatic and strategic approach to manage the complex geopolitical dynamics in the region.

References:
[1] https://www.state.gov/releases/office-of-the-spokesperson/2025/07/on-the-9th-anniversary-of-the-philippines-china-south-china-sea-arbitral-tribunal-ruling
[2] https://www.rappler.com/philippines/manila-summons-china-envoy-sanctions-francis-tolentino/
[3] https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/defence/us-commander-says-china-has-failed-to-coerce-rival-states-in-south-china-sea/articleshow/122391344.cms
[4] https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/South_China_Sea_Arbitration