‘No compromise’: Gov’t vows commitment to protect WPS on 9th anniversary of arbitral ruling

Metro Manila, Philippines - The Philippine government renewed its commitment to protect the West Philippine Sea, as the country marked the ninth anniversary of the landmark 2016 South China Sea arbitral ruling.

In a statement on Saturday, July 12, AFP Chief Gen. Romeo Brawner said safeguarding the country’s territorial waters symbolizes protection of “ our pride, our rights, and our children’s future.”

“We do this quietly, steadily, and without fanfare because we believe in service that speaks for itself. We do this because when it comes to our sovereignty, there is no compromise,” he said.

“This mission is not just ours. It is shared with every Filipino. And we draw strength from your trust and support. Because when the Filipino people are united, we are unstoppable,” Brawner added.

Defense Secretary Gibo Teodoro also honored the landmark ruling, describing it as a reminder that the rule of law matters.

He said defending the country’s sovereignty and jurisdiction is not an act of provocation.

“We continue to uphold the award because it reflects what is right and just – not just for us, but for all coastal states whose rights must be respected under international law. No amount of pressure, reinterpretation, or power plays can erase that truth,” Teodoro said.

In a statement, the Department of Foreign Affairs said the historic ruling symbolizes “that the rule of law can be the great equalizer between and among nations, and serve as the bedrock of peace and stability for the international community.”

The DFA earlier said 27 countries are backing the Philippines’ arbitral win. These are Australia, Canada, Denmark, France, Germany, India, Ireland, Japan, Lithuania, Netherlands, New Zealand , Norway, Portugal, United States, United Kingdom, Austria, Belgium, Czechia, Finland, Greece, Italy, Poland, Romania, Slovakia, Spain, Sweden, and the Republic of Korea.