China is advancing unbeatable at the much disputed South China Sea. It has acknowledged its foreign ambitions both for military purposes and humanitarian objectives.

In this time of globalization, China chose an effective method to show its power in non-violent means. Given the resources, manpower and technology it advanced its activities rapidly as it wanted to.

The large-scale land reclamation and construction work at South China Sea is a form of unquestionable application of coercion at sea, that something already done cannot be altered.

With a carefully chosen weaker target, at the right time, and the right means, “a fait accompli” has been done. China has been known to take advantage on unclear situations.

The Arbitral Tribunal at The Hague has begun its hearing on the South China Sea claims. China decided that the tribunal does not have jurisdiction over the matter.  Whatever ruling that results, it does not change its determined position.

But in accordance with UNCLOS, where the tribunal has authority, our country believes we can negotiate and assert our maritime rights. It is a brave attempt to resolve the sea disputes that affect the Philippines-China bilateral relationship.

However, the court’s decision will have global impact on the procedure of the rule of law in maritime disputes. Will it do more good than harm to the Philippines?

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Tidbits:

For the first time in July, the ITF, maritime unions in East Asia and countries at the Black Sea and Israel acted and checked on conditions for seafarers on board visiting ships, to make sure their wages and work conditions do not fall below minimum international standards.

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Sometimes the hardest thing and the right thing are the same. (By Edgar Allan J. Tac-an)