PHILIPPINE LAW and Behold

  Article I of the Philippine Constitution defines the national territory and lays the foundation for the country’s sovereignty and jurisdiction. This article reflects not only a territorial claim but also a complex assertion of sovereignty over land, water, and air spaces. In addition to the Philippine archipelago, it includes all areas where the Philippines exercises legal authority, such as terrestrial, fluvial, and aerial domains, as well as territorial seas, seabeds, subsoils, insular shelves, and other submarine areas.  Understanding the scope of the national territory, particularly within the maritime context, is essential for addressing contemporary issues related to territorial integrity, resource management, and international relations. Given the Philippines’ strategic location and its rich natural resources, especially in its maritime zones, the boundaries and jurisdictional claims articulated in Article I are critical to both national identity and security. I. Comp...