PH Embassy in Lebanon Holds Lecture on Promoting Philippine Maritime Interests
Ambassador Marlowe A. Miranda delivers his opening remarks during the MANAMo lecture on “Promoting Philippine Maritime Interests, Especially in the West Philippine Sea.” (Beirut PE photo)
BEIRUT 02 October 2025 — The Philippine Embassy in Lebanon successfully conducted a lecture under the Maritime and Archipelagic Nation Awareness Month (MANAMo) celebration entitled “Promoting Philippine Maritime Interests, Especially in the West Philippine Sea” on 26 September 2025. The event brought together Lebanese stakeholders and members of the Filipino community to deepen understanding of the Philippine maritime heritage and ongoing challenges.
In his remarks, Ambassador Marlowe A. Miranda stressed the need for the peaceful settlement of maritime disputes. He noted that the Philippines’ marine resources are a vital part of the nation’s heritage and identity and that protecting these interests is closely linked to regional stability. He further highlighted that safeguarding maritime interests goes hand-in-hand with ensuring regional stability and cooperation.
The lecture was led by Vice Consul Mark Ponce, who presented the fundamentals of Philippine maritime interests and the significance of the 2016 Arbitral Award under the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS). He stressed how this landmark ruling affirms the Philippines’ rights in the West Philippine Sea and contributes to upholding international law.
Meanwhile, Labor Attaché Adam M. Musa highlighted the direct relevance of maritime issues to Filipinos worldwide, particularly the thousands of Filipino seafarers whose livelihoods are affected by maritime security and freedom of navigation. He noted that it is essential to continue raising awareness on these concerns, especially among overseas Filipinos.
The event reaffirmed the Embassy’s commitment to advancing maritime awareness, promoting peaceful dialogue, and honoring the Philippines’ identity as a maritime and archipelagic nation. END
Vice Consul Mark Joshua Ponce leads the lecture on “Promoting Philippine Maritime Interests, Especially in the West Philippine Sea.” (Beirut PE photo)
Philippine Embassy, MWO, and OWWA personnel with the Lebanese and Filipino community during the MANAMo lecture. (Beirut PE photo)
For more information, visit https://www.beirutpe.dfa.gov.ph, https://www.facebook.com/PHinLebanon/.
