The National Maritime Council (NMC) emphasized that the 2016 arbitral ruling on the West Philippine Sea is a shared national asset, not tied to any political entity.Marking the ruling's 10th anniversary, the NMC called for unity among Filipinos to uphold international law and protect maritime rights.

The council highlighted the ruling as a testament to the Filipino people's commitment to justice and peace, urging future generations to inherit both responsibilities and benefits of being a maritime nation.The anniversary also served as a reminder of the legal victory's significance to ordinary citizens reliant on the sea for livelihood.

The NMC praised maritime personnel, scientists, and educators for safeguarding the nation's maritime domain and reaffirmed the Philippines' dedication to peaceful dispute resolution through international law.The event included a National Peace Walk led by key officials, underscoring the importance of collective action in defending sovereignty.The ruling remains a cornerstone of Philippine maritime policy, balancing legal advocacy with national interests.