THE EASTERN Mindanao Command (EastMinCom), under the leadership of LtGen. Luis Rex D. Bergante PA, marked the anniversary of the 2016 Arbitral Ruling on July 12, which affirmed the Philippines’ maritime entitlements in the South China Sea.
Despite the geographical distance, EastMinCom stands united with the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) in protecting sovereign rights against external threats.
The historic ruling by the Permanent Court of Arbitration in The Hague has reinforced the legitimate claims, providing a legal foundation for the continued efforts to assert and defend the country’s maritime territories.
Meanwhile, LtGen. Bergante underscores the importance of being united in the face of challenges to national sovereignty and the commitment to preserving the freedom and rights enshrined in international law, ensuring peace and security for the nation.
“Every unit of the AFP, regardless of location, shares the collective responsibility to uphold our nation’s sovereignty. Thus, EastMinCom remains resolute in supporting all initiatives aimed at securing our territorial integrity, ensuring that our rights in the West Philippine Sea are protected for future generations,” LtGen. Bergante said.
July 12, marks the 8th anniversary of the 2016 Arbitral Tribunal Ruling which favored the Philippines and rejected China’s “Nine-dash line” claim over the entire South China Sea.
