The Bicameral conference committee approved the reconciled version of the proposed Philippine Maritime Zones Bill on Wednesday, July 17.
Senate Majority Leader Senator Francis Tolentino led his counterparts in the House of Representatives on the signing of the proposed measure. The bicameral conference committee discussed the provision conflicts between Senate Bill No. 2492 and House Bill No. 7819.
Both bills seek to define the country’s Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ), as well as the rights and entitlements of the Philippines over its maritime zones.
Once the bill is enacted, the Philippines would have to abide by the standards set by the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS). Tolentino considers the step as a milestone in reaffirming the rights and maritime boundaries of the nation.
The Special Committee on Philippine Maritime and Admiralty Zones was joined by Minority Leader Aquilino “Koko” Pimentel III and Senator Win Gatchalian during the conference meeting.
Representing the House Panel was Pangasinan 3rd District Rep. Maria Rachel Arenas, Negros Occidental 3rd District Rep. Francisco Benitez and Rizal 2nd District Rep. Emigdio Tanjuatco III.
