On 16 February 2016, the Integrated Bar of the Philippines Makati Chapter ("IBP - Makati"), in collaboration with Australian-New Zealand Chamber of Commerce (“ANZCHAM”), held a successful informative breakfast forum called " Impact to trade, investment and commercial relations in ASEAN: West Philippine Sea Dispute”.

 

This was the second forum in a series of informative fora on diverse topics that IBP – Makati is holding as part of celebrating its 25th anniversary this 2016.

 

The forum was well-attended as representatives from different member companies of  ANZCHAM, several officers and members of IBP – Makati, and members of the Australian diplomatic service, including Ambassador Amanda Gorely, attended the forum.

 

President Gbert Zerrudo opened the forum with a brief description of the territorial disputes surrounding the West Philippine Sea or the South China Sea and how it will have a significant effect on the trading route and may lead to strategic control of important air and shipping lanes in Southeast Asia.

 

Atty. Jay Batongbacal, Director - Institute for Maritime Affairs and Law of the Sea UP Law Center, presented a lecture on the claims surrounding the territorial and maritime disputes, their impact on trade, investment and commercial relations in the region.

 

The attendees raised several interesting questions on how the West Philippine Sea Dispute is affecting (and will affect) the region. Atty. Batongbacal  responded to the reactions and questions from the attendees.