United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea

The United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) establishes a comprehensive legal framework to govern all activities and uses of the world's seas and oceans.  The Convention defines the limits of territorial seas of countries from which they can explore and exploit marine resources.  

It was adopted in 1982 in Montego Bay, Jamaica after nine years of negotiations.  UNCLOS entered into force in 16 November 1994.  As of January 2015, 166 countries and the European Union have joined the Convention.  The Philippines is the 11th country that ratified the Convention.  

Focal Office:

NAMRIA

Date Ratified:

Signed the convention on December 10 May 8, 1984

Commitments:

After a State becomes a party to UNCLOS, it is compelled to bring its maritime claims and national laws into conformity with its rights and obligations under the Convention.   A fundamental principle of international law that a State cannot use its domestic law as an excuse not to conform to its obligations under an international treaty to which it is a party to.
Hence, the provisions of UNCLOS prevail over any contrary provisions in the national laws of the State. 

Policy Issuances:

DENR Administrative Order No. 2000 - 83 

DENR Memorandum Circular No. 28 

Administrative Order No. 19 

This Page was updated on Sunday, 10 January 2016 17:59