On 08 Feb. 2024, the Embassy of Japan, in partnership with Stratbase ADR Institute, hosted a thought-provoking roundtable discussion titled “The Biodiversity Beyond National Jurisdiction (BBNJ) Agreement and its Implications on the South China Sea” at the Manila Polo Club in Makati City, unraveling the complexities of international maritime law, with a particular focus on the BBNJ Agreement and its impact on the dynamic region.

Minister Kenichi Matsuda, Deputy Chief of Mission of the Embassy of Japan in the Philippines, delivered insightful remarks to kick-start the program. In his message, Minister Matsuda reaffirmed Japan’s commitment to the rule of law and collaboration with like-minded partners in ensuring maritime freedom and environmental protection. “As enhancing the rule of law is one of Japan’s foreign policy pillars, we are determined to work together hand-in-hand with other like-minded partners, especially with the Philippines, to ensure that universally accepted values and principles,” Min. Matsuda highlights.

The event featured the esteemed International Law expert, Professor NISHIMOTO Kentaro of the Tohoku University offering a lecture that illuminated the intricate facets of the BBNJ Agreement and its direct relevance to the West Philippine Sea and the expansive South China Sea. The discussion aimed to foster a deeper understanding and dialogue among various stakeholders regarding the implementation of international maritime law.

Likewise, a panel discussion followed featuring prominent figures in the field, including Justice Antonio Carpio, former Senior Associate Justice of the Supreme Court of the Philippines; Dr. Rhodora Azanza, Professor Emeritus at the University of the Philippines Marine Science Institute and Former President of the National Academy of Science and Technology; and Dr. Mary Kristerie Baleva, Director for International Affairs and Treaties at the ASEAN Centre for Biodiversity. The panelists engaged in an enriching exchange of ideas, providing diverse perspectives on the implications of the BBNJ Agreement in the South China Sea. Closing the roundtable, Prof. Victor Andres Manhit, President of the Stratbase ADR Institute, expressed gratitude for the insightful contributions and discussions.