The Philippines called for the adoption of rules for a treaty that aims to protect marine biodiversity of areas beyond national jurisdiction. Agriculture Undersecretary for Fisheries Drusila Esther Bayate called for consensus-based decision-making, with clear thresholds for majority votes that “balance efficiency with legitimacy” under the Agreement on the Conservation and Sustainable Use of Marine Biological Diversity of Areas Beyond National Jurisdiction (BBNJ Agreement). She also said there must be “flexibility, regional representation, and genuine inclusivity,” especially in terms of participation.

Pelonia, A. (2025, April 28). PHL pitches 'inclusive rules' for oceans treaty. Business Mirror, p. A9.