Statement of Senator Nancy Binay on the ruling
of the Permanent Court of Arbitration

Today we welcome a historical milestone--a moral victory to the Filipino people. The tribunal's ruling clearly affirms our position that China's movements in the West Philippine Sea are incompatible with UNCLOS.

I've always supported the soft option in taking a diplomatic approach, or legal discretion, as an option to settle politically-charged issues. The tribunal's ruling may not sit well with China, but I hope it would open opportunities for healthier dialogues and negotiations, and provide comprehensive guidelines for future incidents at sea.

Our friendship with China continues to be tested and it's about time to rebuild injured relationships for the sake of peace.