MANILA, Philippines — The Philippine Archipelagic Sea Lanes Center, Inc. (PASLCI) successfully held the official launching of the Philippine Archipelagic Sea Lanes Initiative (PASLI) on October 28, 2026, at Rizal Park Hotel in Manila. The event marked an important step in advancing the country\'s efforts to strengthen maritime governance, enhance institutional cooperation, and pursue international recognition of its designated archipelagic sea lanes.

Led by PASLCI President and Chairman Vice Admiral Joseph M. Coyme, PCG (Ret.), the initiative supports the implementation of Republic Act No. 12065, or the Philippine Archipelagic Sea Lanes Act. The legislation provides the national legal framework for designating and managing archipelagic sea lanes in accordance with the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS).

The launching program featured the ceremonial unveiling of PASLI, recognition of founding partners, signing of commitments, and oath-taking of officers of the Philippine Archipelagic Sea Lanes Advisory Council (PASLAC). The council is envisioned as a multisectoral advisory body bringing together representatives from government, maritime organizations, academic institutions, and other stakeholders to support policy development, technical assessments, and coordinated maritime initiatives.

PASLCI emphasized the importance of strengthening the country\'s capabilities in maritime traffic management, hydrographic surveys, navigational safety, maritime domain awareness, search and rescue, and marine environmental protection. Through PASLI and PASLAC, the organization aims to support the Philippines in pursuing the applicable International Maritime Organization (IMO) processes for international recognition and adoption of its archipelagic sea lanes while promoting cooperation among public and private maritime stakeholders.