Today marks a decade since the issuance of the 2016 South China Sea Arbitral Award on 12 July 2016.

The Philippine Embassy in Singapore joins the Department of Foreign Affairs,  other Philippine Government agencies, the global community, and all Filipinos around the world, in commemorating this landmark ruling which is recognized as a definitive benchmark for the interpretation of the 1982 UN Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS), and has since served as a guidepost for maritime rights, environmental obligations, and the peaceful resolution of disputes.

Ten years on, the Award is more than a document. It’s a legacy to uphold and a responsibility to carry forward. For Filipinos, it affirms our rights and dignity. For ASEAN, it strengthens our collective voice in championing peace and stability. For the world, it demonstrates that international law remains vital for resolving disputes and ensuring fairness among nations.

Philippine Ambassador to Singapore Medardo G. Macaraig views this anniversary as a moment to honor the courage and wisdom of those who pursued the case, the Tribunal’s wisdom, and our people’s resilience. Above all, it is a call to future generations: protect our seas, uphold the rule of law, and build a region where cooperation prevails over conflict.

Our Seas. Our Rights. Our Future.

#PHinSingapore #2016ArbitralAward #ADecadeHence