Rizal Park, Manila — The Bureau of Corrections (BuCor) joined Filipinos from various sectors in the National Peace Walk 2026 at the Quirino Grandstand in Rizal Park, Manila, commemorating the 10th anniversary of the 2016 South China Sea Arbitral Award on 12 July 2026.
Held as part of the national commemoration under the banner, “Dekada ng Batas, Hindi Dahas” or “A Decade of Law, Not Force,” the activity brought together representatives from government agencies, uniformed services, civil society organizations, and other stakeholders to reaffirm the country’s commitment to resolving disputes peacefully and in accordance with international law.
Despite the heavy rain, participants continued the peace walk with determination, demonstrating unity and support for the rule of law and the peaceful protection of the Philippines’ sovereign rights and maritime entitlements.
In his welcome remarks, VICE ADMIRAL EDGAR YBAÑEZ, Deputy Commandant for Operations of the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG), emphasized that the anniversary serves as a reminder of the nation’s shared responsibility to remain united, respect international law, and protect the country’s maritime interests through peaceful and lawful means.
The BuCor contingent was led by MS. JORDINE ROSE R. OCON, CrFA, MPS, Director of the Directorate for Planning and Management (DPM) and Chief of the Strategic Communications Office (SCO). Joining her were C/INSP RONALDO D PALMIANO, Chief Inspectorate and Legal Office and Chief, Investigation Unit of the Corrections National Training Institute (CNTI); the BuCor Marching Band; BuCor mascots CO Malaya and CO Dakila; and other Non-Commissioned Officers (NCO), who proudly participated in the national observance.
GENERAL ROMEO S BRAWNER JR., Chief of Staff of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), emphasized the significance of the National Peace Walk in commemorating the 10th Anniversary of the 2016 South China Sea Arbitral Award. He described the arbitral award as a victory for international law and a continuing responsibility for Filipinos to uphold the country’s lawful maritime rights.
National Security Adviser (NSA) EDUARDO S.L. OBAN JR. reaffirmed the government’s commitment to a rules-based international order and stressed the importance of diplomacy, cooperation, and national resilience in addressing maritime and security challenges.
Delivering the keynote address, Secretary of National Defense, HONORABLE GILBERTO C. TEODORO JR., underscored the significance of the 2016 Arbitral Award as a testament to the Philippines’ commitment to international law and the peaceful settlement of disputes. He called on Filipinos to remain united in defending the country’s sovereign rights while pursuing peace, stability, and regional cooperation. He also encouraged Filipinos to recognize the West Philippine Sea (WPS) as an integral part of the country’s national heritage and maritime future, emphasizing the responsibility of every generation to understand and protect the nation’s lawful maritime entitlements.
Following the keynote address, HON. OBAN led the Solidarity Pledge, during which participants collectively affirmed their commitment to upholding the rule of law, promoting peace, and supporting the protection of the Philippines’ sovereign rights and national interests.
The 2016 Arbitral Award was issued on 12 July 2016 by a tribunal constituted under the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS). Among its findings, the tribunal ruled that China’s expansive “nine-dash line” claim has no legal basis under international law and upheld key Philippine maritime entitlements.
Through its participation, BuCor expressed its support for national initiatives that strengthen public awareness, uphold international law, and advance the peaceful and lawful protection of the country’s maritime rights. The Bureau remains committed to contributing to government efforts that promote national unity, institutional cooperation, and the protection of the Philippines’ national interests.
