THE Philippines welcomed the adoption of the first international treaty on the conservation and sustainable use of marine biological diversity in areas 'beyond national jurisdiction.'

Foreign Affairs Secretary Enrique Manalo said the treaty adoption proved once again the 'importance of multilateralism in finding common ground amid competing interests.'

'This international legally binding agreement will provide holistic and equitable management of human activities impacting ocean life beyond national boundaries to safeguard global ocean health,' he said.

'It will also contribute to climate resilience, increased food security for millions of people,' Manalo said on Twitter on Monday.

Manila also underscored the importance of giving 'due regard to the rights and jurisdiction of adjacent coastal states and archipelagic states, which are heavily dependent on the sea,' Manalo said.

On March 3, the United States government, in partnership with 60 civil society organizations, convened the first CSO Summit in Puerto Princesa City, Palawan to coordinate action for marine biodiversity conservation and protection in the coastal areas of Northern Luzon, Mindoro and Palawan that face the South China Sea, the US Embassy said.

The embassy on Monday said US Agency for International Development (USAid) Mission Director Ryan Washburn led the CSO Summit during his visit to Palawan from March 1 to 3.

This visit highlighted the US government's continued commitment to support local stakeholders in conserving biodiversity and protecting marine resources from illegal, unreported, and unregulated fishing activities of domestic and foreign fleets, the embassy said in a statement.

'As an enduring friend, partner and ally, the United States will continue to collaborate with local stakeholders in the western Philippines to support sustainable fishing practices, strengthen food security, and advance the conservation of marine ecosystems as we work toward achieving our shared goal of inclusive growth and a free, prosperous and secure Indo-Pacific region,' USAid Philippines Mission Director Washburn said.

Bernadette E. Tamayo