Philippine Embassy in Portugal Launches Maritime and Law of the Sea Lecture Series
LISBON 16 January 2025 – The Philippine Embassy in Portugal officially launched its Maritime and Law of the Sea lecture series on 12 January 2025 at the Chancery.
In his address to the Filipino Community in Portugal, Third Secretary and Vice Consul Lou Bryan R. Macabodbod provided an overview of the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) and the 2016 South China Sea Arbitration in the series’ inaugural session. Through the lecture series, the Philippine Embassy aims to promote a deeper understanding of the 2016 Arbitral Award, discuss key maritime security challenges, and highlight the importance of upholding a rules-based international order.
Third Secretary and Vice Consul Macabodbod also highlighted the significance of UNCLOS, particularly its pivotal role in the landmark South China Sea arbitration initiated by the Philippines against China. He also shared insights into the Philippine Government’s ongoing efforts to promote the 2016 Arbitral Award and urged the Filipino community to actively advocate for this cause, emphasizing that it is integral to “our identity as a maritime and archipelagic nation.”
In his welcome remarks, Philippine Ambassador to Portugal Paul P. Cortes reaffirmed the Embassy's commitment to promoting meaningful discourse on the preservation of maritime security while strengthening the Filipino Community’s connection to the Philippines' commitment to international law.
The Philippine Embassy plans to conduct other lectures that will involve partnerships with Filipino communities in Portugal and Angola and Portuguese universities. This comprehensive approach underscores the Embassy’s dedication to promoting the Philippines' maritime advocacy and fostering collaborative discussions on regional and international peace and stability. END
For more information, visit https://www.lisbonpe.dfa.gov.ph, https://www.facebook.com/PHLinPortugal/ or https://www.instagram.com/phinportugal/.