Why 'West Philippine Sea' Matters to Young Filipinos ⚠️

For Filipino youth, understanding the history and the complexities of the West Philippine Sea is essential. 

The Roots of Contention

The South China Sea, or what the Philippines refers to as the West Philippine Sea, has been a focal point of regional tensions for centuries, rooted in historical claims and modern geopolitical interests. Dating back to 1279, China drew territorial maps that included influence over the region. Over time, control shifted among different powers and eventually colonial states.

The modern dispute finds its origins in the aftermath of World War II, particularly with the San Francisco Treaty of 1951, where Japan discarded its rights in the region. China, under the Kuomintang government, asserted the controversial "nine-dotted line," claiming vast maritime territories, including those historically belonging to other nations.

In the International news, they call it the South China Sea, but why does the Philippines emphasize the term ‘West Philippine Sea?’

The Story Behind the term ‘West Philippine Sea’

The term "West Philippine Sea" gained official recognition from the Philippine government in 2011, during the administration of President Benigno Aquino III. More than a geographical label, it symbolizes the country's stance amidst the combative claims over the South China Sea.

This move by the Philippines was further solidified in June 2011 when Akbayan representative Walden Bello filed a resolution in the House of Representatives, urging the government to adopt this new name. The Armed Forces of the Philippines, having used the term since the mid-2000s, supported this change, which was officially codified by an administrative order in September 2012. This order specifically limited the application of "West Philippine Sea" to waters within the Philippine Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ), directing all government departments and agencies to adopt this terminology.

And then, the International Legal Battle

The legal battle over these waters reached a turning point on July 12, 2016, when the Permanent Court of Arbitration ruled in favor of the Philippines in a landmark case against China. This ruling invalidated China's historical claims, particularly the "nine-dash line," under international law, notably the 1982 United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea. However, it's crucial to note that the tribunal refrained from delimiting maritime boundaries, leaving the precise separation of the "West Philippine Sea" undefined.

Tensions persist as China continues to assert its claims through militarization and expansive construction activities, disregarding international arbitration rulings favoring neighboring states like the Philippines.

What’s At Stake?

Rich natural resources, including oil and gas reserves, critical shipping lanes vital for global trade, and significant fisheries are at stake in this dispute. The disputed waters account for 8% of worldwide commercial fishery production and serve as a primary food source for China's population.

For Filipino youth, understanding the history and the complexities of this dispute is essential. 

It not only affects national sovereignty but also has far-reaching implications for regional stability and economic prosperity. As tensions continue to escalate, the need for informed discourse and diplomatic solutions becomes increasingly urgent. 

The youth of the Philippines must carefully consider the implications of these developments as they navigate their country's future in the global arena.

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