07-07-2025
Think tank to commemorate PH arbitral win vs. China
A Philippine flag flutters proudly in the face of CCG's aggressive actions in the WPS.
A high-level security forum will take place on July 11, marking the 9th anniversary of the Philippines' arbitral victory against China in the West Philippine Sea.
According to Stratbase Institute, the conference will highlight the country's commitment to defending its sovereignty in accordance with rules-based international order.
Dubbed as the '9th Year of the Arbitral Victory: Defending the Rules-Based Order through Reinforced Defense Capabilities and Partnerships,'' the forum will be done in partnership with the Australian Embassy in the Philippines.
Stratbase Institute President Victor Andres 'Dindo' Manhit said the forum is not simply a legal commemoration but a reaffirmation of Manila's sovereign rights as well as a commitment to the rule of law.
'Staying silent in the face of China's aggression is not neutrality, but neglect,' Manhit said in a press release. 'Now is the time for clarity and courage from our leaders.'
The discussions will center on maritime cooperation, regional security, and the importance of enforcing the Arbitral Award as a bulwark of peace in the Indo-Pacific.
The forum will also acknowledge the Armed Forces of the Philippines and Philippine Coast Guard personnel who risk their lives defending the country's waters.
'They do not stand alone. Our partners stand with us because this is not just our fight — it's a test of whether international law still matters,' Manhit said.
Further, it will pay tribute to late Foreign Affairs Secretary Albert Del Rosario, who played a key role in the arbitral case.
On July 12, 2016, the Philippines scored a victory against China in a landmark ruling by the Permanent Court of Arbitration that invalidated Beijing's massive claims in the South China Sea.
China has since ignored the ruling as it continues its aggression in the region.
Under the Marcos administration, the Philippines vowed to never give up an inch of territory to foreign aggressors. — BAP, GMA Integrated News
