Manila, June 15, 2024 — The Philippines has officially asked the United Nations to extend its maritime boundaries farther into the disputed South China Sea, the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) announced on Saturday. This move is a clear rejection of China’s extensive claims over the potentially resource-rich waters.
In a statement, the DFA revealed that the Philippines, through its Mission to the UN in New York, submitted information to the UN Commission on the Limits of the Continental Shelf (CLCS) on June 14. The submission aims to register the country’s entitlement to an extended continental shelf (ECS) in the West Palawan Region of the West Philippine Sea/South China Sea.
Legal Basis and Strategic Implications
Citing Article 76 of the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS), Manila asserted that “a coastal State such as the Philippines is entitled to establish the outer limits of its continental shelf comprising the seabed and subsoil of the submarine areas extending beyond 200 nautical miles (NM) but not to exceed 350 NM from the baselines from which the breadth of the territorial sea is measured.”
This legal framework provides the basis for the Philippines’ claim to extend its maritime boundaries and potentially secure rights to significant underwater resources, including minerals and hydrocarbons.
Background and Significance
The West Philippine Sea, part of the larger South China Sea, has been a hotspot of geopolitical disputes involving multiple countries, including China, Vietnam, Malaysia, and Brunei. The area is known for its strategic importance, abundant fishing grounds, and potential oil and gas reserves. The Philippines’ move to extend its boundaries is seen as an effort to bolster its territorial and economic claims in the region.
International Reactions
China, which claims nearly the entire South China Sea under its so-called “nine-dash line,” has already expressed opposition to the Philippines’ request. A spokesperson for the Chinese Foreign Ministry reiterated Beijing’s stance that any unilateral actions by the Philippines would be considered a violation of international law and infringe on China’s sovereignty.
The United States, which has been a vocal supporter of freedom of navigation and overflight in the South China Sea, has yet to issue an official response. However, experts believe Washington is likely to back the Philippines’ legal and diplomatic efforts, consistent with its policy of countering China’s expansive claims.
Next Steps
The UN CLCS is expected to review the Philippines’ submission over the coming months. The process involves scientific and technical evaluation of the data presented, which can be lengthy and complex. If approved, the Philippines would gain rights to additional seabed resources, including minerals and hydrocarbons, beyond its current 200-nautical mile Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ).
Domestic Response
In the Philippines, the government’s move has received widespread support across political lines. President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. lauded the submission as a testament to the country’s commitment to protecting its maritime entitlements and securing resources for future generations. Environmental groups and the local fishing community have also welcomed the initiative, hoping it will lead to better protection and sustainable management of marine resources.
Analysis and Implications
Analysts predict that the Philippines’ request will be a significant test for international maritime law and the rules-based order in the region. The outcome could set a precedent for other countries with overlapping claims and influence the future dynamics of territorial disputes in the South China Sea.
As the UN deliberates on the matter, the international community will be watching closely, aware that the decision could either defuse or exacerbate tensions in one of the world’s most critical and contested maritime corridors.
Conclusion
The Philippines’ appeal to the UN marks a bold step in asserting its maritime rights in the West Philippine Sea. While the outcome remains uncertain, the move underscores the ongoing strategic and economic importance of the region, as well as the complexities involved in international maritime disputes.
