The Philippine Maritime Zones Act and the Archipelagic Sea Lanes Act were officially enacted into law after President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. signed Republic Act Nos. 12064 and 12065 during a ceremonial event at Malacañang on November 8.
The Philippine Maritime Zones Act will designate specific areas within the Philippines' territory, including maritime zones that are still considered part of the country.
Marcos highlighted the significance of the law in protecting Filipinos' rights to ocean areas with abundant natural resources.
"Our people specially our fisherfolks should be able to pursue their livelihood free from uncertainty and harassment. We must be able to harness mineral and energy resources in our seabed," Marcos said in his speech after the ceremonial signing.
Meanwhile, the Philippine Archipelagic Sea Lanes Act aims to establish a system for sea lanes or routes within Philippine waters that foreign vessels can use for passage.
Marcos further stated that the goal is to provide safe routes for foreign maritime and aerial vessels without compromising national security.
“This sea lanes will offer continuous, expeditious, and unobstructed transit for vessels and air transport while obliging them to comply with navigational regulations and procedures, as well as with the air rules of flight safety and protocols," said Marcos.
In closing, Marcos expressed hope that through these two laws, the nation will remain committed to advancing and protecting its maritime interests.
"It is my fervent hope that with the help of these two laws, we will continue to pursue and defend our maritime interests and navigate towards a brighter and stronger bagong Pilipinas," Marcos stated.
He added that these newly signed laws match Philippine regulations with international laws, highlighting the nation's role as a responsible member of the global community and its commitment to following international rules.
