The Institute for Maritime and Ocean Affairs (IMOA) has released a statement responding to the Chinese Consulate’s objection to the Cebu City Council’s declaration of July 12 of every year as West Philippine Sea Victory Day.

In its reply, IMOA addresses several points raised by China regarding the July 12, 2016 Arbitral Award, the legal basis of maritime claims in the South China Sea, and the arbitration proceedings conducted under the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS).

The statement reiterates IMOA’s position on the validity of the arbitral ruling, the maritime entitlements established under UNCLOS, and the legal framework governing claims and disputes in the West Philippine Sea.

The full statement is reproduced below.