POSITION PAPER (IVAN)

Topic:
Territorial dispute between the Philippines and China regarding West Philppines Sea

Emphasizing:
- sovereignty
- international law
- regional security

ADDITIONAL INSTRUCTIONS:

RESEARCH
- 2016 arbitral ruling by the Permanent Court of Arbitration, favoring the Philippines
- Recent confrontations between the Filipino and Chinese vessels, including incidents at Sabina Shoal
and Second Thomas Shoal
- Statements from the Philippine leaders asserting national sovereignty

OUTLINE STRUCTURE:

Body Paragraphs:
- Discuss legal backing from international law, implications of yielding territory, and the importance of
regional alliances and address potential
criticisms of confrontational stance, such as economic repercussions or diplomatic

Conclusion:
- Summarize your arguments and restate your thesis.

REFERENCES (use)
- academic sources
- government publications
- news articles
- expert analyses

Introcution:
 TITLE:

Charting the Waters: The Philippines, China

The territorial dispute between the Philippines and China in the West Philippine Sea represents
one of the most contentious geopolitical issues in Southeast Asia today. This area, rich in natural
resources and strategically vital for international trade, has become a focal point of national pride and
security for the Philippines. The conflict is rooted in historical claims, international law, and the broader
dynamics of regional security, particularly as China expands its influence through assertive maritime
policies. In 2016, the Permanent Court of Arbitration delivered a landmark ruling that favored the
Philippines, affirming its rights under the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS)
(Eight Anniversary of the Philippines – PRC South China Sea Arbitral Tribunal Ruling – United States
Department of State, 2024). However, despite this legal victory, ongoing confrontations and aggressive
maneuvers by Chinese vessels continue to challenge the Philippines' sovereignty. This paper argues that
the Philippines must steadfastly uphold its claims in the West Philippine Sea to protect its sovereignty
and ensure regional stability, navigating the complex interplay of international law, national interests,
and diplomatic relations.

The 2016 arbitral ruling by the Permanent Court of Arbitration is a cornerstone of the
Philippines' legal argument in the West Philippine Sea dispute (Eight Anniversary of the Philippines – PRC
South China Sea Arbitral Tribunal Ruling – United States Department of State, 2024). The tribunal ruled
that China's extensive claims based on the "nine-dash line" have no legal basis under international law,
specifically the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS). This ruling not only affirms
the Philippines' rights to its exclusive economic zone (EEZ) but also serves as a critical precedent for
other nations facing similar territorial disputes. Upholding this ruling is essential for the Philippines to
reinforce its claims and assert its sovereignty over the contested waters. By adhering to international
law, the Philippines can garner support from the global community and strengthen its position against
Chinese aggression (South China Sea Arbitration Ruling: What Happened and What’s Next? | U.S.-
CHINA | ECONOMIC and SECURITY REVIEW COMMISSION, 2024)

The yielding territory in the West Philippine Sea would have dire consequences for the
Philippines. The region is not only rich in fisheries and potential oil reserves but also plays a crucial role
in national security. Allowing China to encroach further would set a dangerous precedent, potentially
emboldening other nations to make similar claims on Philippine territory. The loss of control over these
waters would not only diminish the Philippines' resource base but also undermine its strategic position
in Southeast Asia, affecting trade routes and regional stability (Baviera, 2016). Therefore, maintaining a
firm stance on territorial integrity is crucial for the Philippines' long-term interests.

Strengthening regional alliances is vital for the Philippines in addressing the challenges posed by
China. Partnerships with countries like the United States, Japan, and other ASEAN members can
enhance the Philippines' security posture. Joint military exercises, diplomatic engagements, and
multilateral forums can serve as deterrents against further aggression. For instance, the Enhanced
Defense Cooperation Agreement (EDCA) with the United States allows for increased military presence
and cooperation, which is essential in responding to threats in the West Philippine Sea (Magramo –
CNN, June 20, 2024). By fostering these alliances, the Philippines can bolster its position in the West
Philippine Sea and demonstrate a united front in upholding international law.

In summary, the territorial dispute in the West Philippine Sea underscores the critical need for
the Philippines to uphold its sovereignty and assert its rights as affirmed by the 2016 arbitral ruling.
Yielding territory would not only jeopardize the nation’s resource base but also weaken its strategic
position in Southeast Asia, inviting further encroachments. Strengthening regional alliances and
adhering to international law are essential strategies for the Philippines to navigate the complex
geopolitical landscape and counter Chinese aggression. Ultimately, a steadfast commitment to its claims
in the West Philippine Sea is vital for the Philippines to ensure national security and promote regional
stability.

Eighth anniversary of the Philippines-PRC South China Sea Arbitral Tribunal Ruling - United States Department of State. (2024, July

11). United States Department of State. https://www.state.gov/eighth-anniversary-of-the-philippines-prc-south-china-sea-arbitral-tribunal-ruling/

#:~:text=In%20its%20ruling%2C%20the%20Tribunal,the%20PRC%20and%20the%20Philippines.

South China sea arbitration ruling: What happened and what’s next? | U.S.- CHINA | ECONOMIC and SECURITY REVIEW

COMMISSION. (2024, July 17). https://www.uscc.gov/research/south-china-sea-arbitration-ruling-what-happened-and-whats-next

Baviera, A. S. (2016). The Philippines and the South China Sea dispute: Security interests and perspectives. Storey, I. & Lin. CY.

(Eds.), The South China Sea dispute: Navigating diplomatic and strategic tensions, 161-187.

Magramo, K (June 20, 2024). Tension are flaring once more in the South China Sea. Here’s why it matters for the world, retrieved

from https://edition.cnn.com/2023/09/29/asia/south-china-sea-tensions-philippines-china-us-explainer-intl-hnk/index.html.