Philippines reiterates rejection of China’s claim vs 2016 arbitral ruling

Daemien Arkin Batacan

The Philippine government has rejected China’s latest attempt to undermine the landmark 2016 arbitral ruling on the South China Sea, reiterating that the decision remains final, legally binding, and recognized under international law.

In a statement released on June 22, the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) dismissed Beijing’s assertion that the arbitral award was “illegal, null and void,” stressing that the ruling settled key maritime issues between the Philippines and China under the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS).

The DFA emphasized that the award invalidated China’s expansive “nine-dash line” claim and affirmed the Philippines’ maritime entitlements in the West Philippine Sea. The government also maintained that no country can disregard a legally binding decision simply because it disagrees with the outcome.

China has consistently refused to recognize the ruling since it was issued by an arbitral tribunal in The Hague on July 12, 2016. Beijing argues that the tribunal lacked jurisdiction and insists that disputes in the South China Sea should be resolved through bilateral negotiations.

Philippine officials, however, reiterated that the award is a permanent part of international law and serves as the basis for Manila’s continued assertion of its sovereign rights and jurisdiction in the West Philippine Sea.

The latest exchange comes amid renewed tensions in the disputed waters, where both countries have repeatedly traded diplomatic protests over maritime activities and territorial claims. Recent incidents around Bajo de Masinloc, also known as Scarborough Shoal, have further highlighted the longstanding dispute between the two nations.

Despite China’s continued rejection of the ruling, the Philippines said it remains committed to resolving disputes peacefully and in accordance with international law while safeguarding its rights in the West Philippine Sea.