On on the Merits ruling that the Philippines has exclusive sovereign

rights over the long-disputed portions of the West Philippine Sea.1 Two-years
after the promulgation, the People’s Republic of China remains obstinate on
its claim continuing its infrastructure projects consisting of military
constructions within the territory.2 Runways were constructed in the reefs of
Kagitingan (Fiery Cross), Panganiban (Mischief), and Zamora (Subi) .3
Helipads, wind turbines, observation towers, radomes and communication
towers were built on the smaller reefs of Burgos (Gaven), Calderon
(Cuarteron), McKennan (Chigua), and Mabini (Johnson).4
Pursuant to the decision of the PCA, it must follow that the Republic of
the Philippines exercises its sovereignty and has the power to enforce its laws
within the disputed territories against China. This paper seeks to discuss the
application of Philippine laws on Property and Torts but shall not include
international law.
On 22 January 2013, The Philippines, By Notification and Statement of
Claim initiated the proceedings against China on the disputed islands.5 On t19
February 2013, China presented a Note Verbale to the Department of Foreign
Affairs stating its rejection of the arbitration and returning the Notification
and Statement of Claim.6 Unfazed, China had undertaken reclamation and
earth moving activities as early as February 2014 up until the present.7

1
In the Matter of the South China Sea Arbitration (Phil. V. China), P.C.A Case No. 2013-19 (July 12, 2016).
2
http://cnnphilippines.com/news/2018/07/09/west-philippine-sea-china-permanent-court-of-arbitration-
hague.html; https://www.inquirer.net/specials/exclusive-china-militarization-south-china-sea
3
4
5
PCA p 11; jardeleza p10
6
PCA p 12
7
https://www.rappler.com/nation/58007-ph-confirms-china-construction-south-china-sea