In a Special Study for the Stratbase ADR Institute (ADRi), marine geneticist Dr. Ma. Carmen Lagman explains that the Philippines should capitalize on the environmental and economic value of the West Philippine Sea, as well as the Philippines’ victory at The Hague-based Arbitral Tribunal, to explore a different and creative approach to reducing tensions. Through one approach, the countries’ concern for the sustainability of fish stocks could motivate the creation of transboundary fisheries management areas between the conflicting countries. For this approach to work, the Philippines, ASEAN, and our international partners must work together to safeguard the commons that the whole of region benefits from. The prospects for ASEAN cooperation within the context of The Hague ruling will also be discussed at a forum hosted by ADRi for this purpose on April 25.

Fishing and the future of the West Philippine Sea. (2017, April 19). Business World, p. S1/8.