Manila: The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) has reaffirmed that the West Philippine Sea (WPS) is an integral part of Philippine territory, a stance firmly grounded in international laws and the 2016 Arbitral Award, dismissing any claims to the contrary as mere 'satsat' or idle talk.

According to Philippines News Agency, Rear Admiral Jay Tarriela, spokesperson for the WPS at the PCG, emphasized in a Facebook post on Thursday that the WPS is supported by the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS). This multilateral treaty lays down a comprehensive legal framework for the management of the world's oceans and seas. Tarriela highlighted the importance of this legal backing by stating, "Paninindigan bilang Pilipino na ito ay pamana ng ating mga bayani na nagbuwis ng kanilang buhay para tayo maging malaya at responsibilidad natin na dapat nating ipaglaban," which translates to the conviction that the WPS is a legacy of Filipino heroes and a responsibility that must be defended.

Further reinforcing the legal claim, Tarriela noted that the WPS is enshrined in Philippine laws through the Philippine Maritimes Zones Act. He challenged those who consider the WPS to be disputed territory, suggesting that such a stance inadvertently lends credence to the countries attempting to claim it, thus casting doubt on the Philippines' ownership.

The declaration came in response to remarks by Senator Rodante Marcoleta, who on Wednesday referred to the defense of the WPS by Philippine government officials and maritime experts as 'satsat.' Marcoleta later clarified that his comment was not necessarily derogatory, explaining that he believed the defenders' arguments lacked a solid foundation.

The 2016 ruling by the arbitral tribunal, constituted under Annex VII of UNCLOS, was a significant victory for the Philippines. It invalidated China's 'nine-dash-line' claims, declaring them without legal basis, thereby reinforcing the Philippines' position on the WPS.