Bilateral Agreement of Philippines and China

On October 20, 2016, the Philippines and China entered a historic bilateral agreement known as the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) on strengthening cooperation on fisheries, marine, and aquatic resources. The agreement aimed to promote the sustainable use and conservation of these resources and improve cooperation between the two countries in managing their shared marine ecosystems, particularly the South China Sea.

The MOU was signed during the state visit of Chinese President Xi Jinping to the Philippines. It was a significant moment for the two nations as it marked the resumption of bilateral talks on maritime disputes that had been halted by the Philippines during the previous administration.

The agreement covered several areas of cooperation, including the conduct of joint research and development projects on fisheries and marine resources, the exchange of technical expertise and knowledge on marine science, and the improvement of communication and coordination mechanisms between the two countries’ maritime law enforcement agencies.

One of the key features of the MOU was the establishment of a Joint Fisheries Committee (JFC) composed of senior officials from both countries’ fisheries and marine agencies. The JFC was tasked with managing common marine resources, including the establishment of a hotline to facilitate communication and coordination between the fisheries authorities of both nations.

The MOU also stipulated the creation of a Joint Coast Guard Committee (JCGC) that aimed to enhance bilateral cooperation in maritime law enforcement and search and rescue operations. The JCGC was later renamed the Philippines-China Joint Coast Guard Committee (PCJCGC) following the establishment of the Philippine Coast Guard as a separate agency.

The MOU was seen as a significant step towards resolving long-standing tensions between the two nations over territorial disputes in the South China Sea. It demonstrated the willingness of both countries to engage in constructive and peaceful dialogue to find mutually beneficial solutions to maritime issues. Furthermore, it highlighted the importance of sustainable and responsible management of marine resources for the benefit of present and future generations.

In conclusion, the bilateral agreement between the Philippines and China on strengthening cooperation on fisheries, marine, and aquatic resources was a significant moment in the history of both nations. It marked the resumption of bilateral talks on maritime disputes and demonstrated the willingness of both countries to engage in constructive dialogue towards finding mutually beneficial solutions. The agreement emphasized the importance of sustainable and responsible management of marine resources, which is crucial in ensuring the long-term health and productivity of shared marine ecosystems.