Scenate President Francis Escudero on Wednesday urged the Solicitor General to find ways to secure the 2016 arbitral ruling that supports the Philippines’ claim to the West Philippine Sea against future policy shifts.
During the Department of Justice’s budget hearing, Escudero suggested enacting a law to enforce the arbitral award, which would bind any sitting president to uphold it.
Solicitor General Guevarra noted that while the issue is being studied, the Supreme Court may avoid ruling on it due to its political nature, suggesting that Congress or the president should lead the initiative.
Guevarra added that a more permanent policy could be established through legislative measures, with Congress already working on incorporating the ruling into the Maritime Zones Bill and Archipelagic Sealanes Bill.
The 2016 UN arbitral tribunal ruling, which China dismissed, affirmed the Philippines’ rights in the West Philippine Sea but has faced challenges due to shifting political stances and ongoing tensions with China.
Source : PhilNews24 | August 29, 2024
