Philippines Deposits Bajo de Masinloc Maritime Chart with UN to Reinforce South China Sea Claims
The Philippines has formally deposited its official nautical chart of Bajo de Masinloc (Scarborough Shoal) with the United Nations, reinforcing its maritime entitlements under international law and strengthening the country's legal position in the South China Sea. Philippine officials described the move as another milestone in promoting transparency, legal certainty, and adherence to the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS). Key Takeaways The Philippines deposited its official nautical chart of Bajo de Masinloc with the United Nations on 29 July 2026. The move complies with Article 16 of UNCLOS, requiring coastal states to publicize official maritime baselines. The chart outlines the feature's normal baselines, territorial sea, and contiguous zone. Philippine officials say the deposit strengthens legal certainty and transparency regarding the country's maritime claims. The government reaffirmed its commitment to resolving maritime disputes peacefully und...