President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. affirmed that the country will remain committed to international law, highlighting the significance of the Permanent Court of Arbitration (PCA) as a crucial element of Philippine foreign policy.
Marcin Marcin Czepelak, the Secretary-General of the PCA, had a courtesy call in Malacañang on Thursday.
“The Permanent Court of Arbitration is an important part of our foreign policy considering all the challenges that we are facing right now. And our continuing adherence to international law,” said Marcos.
“The Court of Arbitration is [important]… that is an argument that we make and have made in several instances. It’s very [gratifying] [you have visited] Manila,” he added.
Czepelak expressed his gratitude to Marcos for meeting with him, noting that it was his first visit to the country.
“It is my first time and it is fantastic experience to be able to, first, I meet a lot of people and then I’m allowed to even visit some places. And I’m very happy that you found the time,” Czepelak said.
As part of their routine, PCA officials visit Contracting Parties to promote the Court’s dispute settlement mechanisms. During his visit, Czepelak expressed interest in discussing the possibility of establishing a Host Country Agreement (HCA) with the Philippines to facilitate PCA hearings in the country.
His visit provides a significant chance to underscore the Philippines’ dedication to international law, peaceful dispute resolution, and the PCA, while also celebrating the Arbitral Court’s 125th anniversary.
Czepelak acknowledged the Philippines' significant contributions to the PCA, particularly highlighting its current role with Philippine Ambassador J. Eduardo Malaya's election as acting president of the PCA Administrative Council for the 2023-2024 term on December 12, 2022, making him the first Filipino and second non-Dutch national to lead the Council.
Czepelak will be in the Philippines from August 26 to 30.
