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Manila Bulletin devider Philippines devider National devider ASEAN adopts maritime declaration, pushes peaceful dispute resolution

ASEAN adopts maritime declaration, pushes peaceful dispute resolution

Published May 9, 2026 10:21 am  |  Updated May 9, 2026 01:54 pm

LAPU-LAPU CITY, Cebu — Leaders of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) have adopted a declaration strengthening maritime cooperation and reaffirming commitment to the peaceful resolution of disputes in regional waters in accordance with international law.

The ASEAN Leaders’ Declaration on Maritime Cooperation was adopted during the 48th ASEAN Summit here on May 8.

In the declaration, ASEAN leaders reaffirmed their shared commitment to maintaining “peace, security, stability and prosperity” in the region while respecting legal and diplomatic processes without resorting to the threat or use of force.

The bloc also emphasized the importance of the 1982 United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) as the legal framework governing activities in oceans and seas.

South China Sea

ASEAN leaders likewise reaffirmed the importance of fully implementing the 2002 Declaration on the Conduct of Parties in the South China Sea (DOC).

The declaration also committed ASEAN member states to continue negotiations for an “effective and substantive” Code of Conduct (COC) in the South China Sea, in accordance with international law and UNCLOS.

The regional bloc stressed the importance of maintaining peace, stability, freedom of navigation and overflight, and unimpeded lawful commerce in maritime areas.

Maritime security, law enforcement

Under the declaration, ASEAN agreed to strengthen maritime cooperation in areas such as maritime law enforcement, maritime transport connectivity, maritime search and rescue, marine environmental protection, and maritime domain awareness.

The bloc also committed to intensifying cooperation against illegal, unreported, and unregulated fishing, marine pollution, marine debris, and transnational crimes.

ASEAN leaders also backed stronger cooperation among maritime law enforcement agencies through the ASEAN Coast Guard Forum.

Energy, trade routes

The declaration highlighted the importance of maintaining stable global energy supply chains and maritime trade routes amid growing geopolitical tensions and disruptions affecting global shipping.

ASEAN leaders stressed the need to minimize disruptions to the movement of energy supplies, food, and essential goods while strengthening logistics and supply chain resilience in the region.

Climate, marine protection

The bloc also acknowledged the growing threat posed by sea level rise to ASEAN coastal communities, livelihoods, and territorial integrity.

The declaration called for stronger regional and international cooperation to address marine pollution, biodiversity loss, and climate-related maritime risks.

ASEAN leaders also reaffirmed support for the Philippines’ 2026 chairmanship theme, “Navigating Our Future, Together.”

Related Tags

ASEAN maritime cooperation South China Sea UNCLOS maritime declaration
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