MANILA, July 13 — Leyte 1st District Representative Martin Romualdez has renewed his call for national unity in defending the country’s sovereignty, urging Filipinos to uphold their identity through words, actions, and service.
The former House Speaker delivered the message in commemoration of the 19th anniversary of the 2016 Arbitral Award, a landmark ruling by the Permanent Court of Arbitration that affirmed the Philippines’ legitimate maritime claims in the West Philippine Sea.
Romualdez described the decision as a monumental victory not only for the Philippines but also for the global rule of law. “This was a victory of principle over power, of law over intimidation,” he stated. “It reminds us of what we can achieve when we stand as one people, bound by patriotism and a deep love for country.”
On July 12, 2016, the arbitral tribunal in The Hague ruled in favor of the Philippines, nullifying China’s expansive nine-dash line claim and affirming the country’s sovereign rights over its maritime zones, as defined under the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS).
Romualdez emphasized that the Arbitral Award goes beyond being a mere diplomatic instrument. He described it as a living testament to the Filipino people’s resilience and rightful claim to their waters.
He also issued a warning against disinformation campaigns that attempt to downplay or distort the significance of the ruling. “The West Philippine Sea is ours. And as long as we stand as one—brave, just, and proudly Filipino—we will always stand on the side of what is right,” he declared.
Romualdez concluded by calling on citizens to live out their patriotism daily, saying, “Let us live our nationhood not just today, but every day—in word, in deed, and in duty.”
