Senior Associate Justice Antonio Carpio, a prominent advocate for the country’s territorial rights, has sparked a national debate on the possibility of suing China over its expansive claims in the South China Sea. According to Carpio, the Philippines has a strong case against China’s actions, which he believes are a clear violation of international law.
Carpio’s assertion is based on the 2016 ruling by the Permanent Court of Arbitration (PCA) in The Hague, which invalidated China’s so-called ‘nine-dash line’ claim. The PCA ruled that China’s claims have no basis in law and are therefore null and void.
The Supreme Court Justice has long been a vocal critic of China’s aggressive actions in the South China Sea, which he believes pose a threat to regional stability and security. He has called on the government to take decisive action against China, including filing a lawsuit to protect the country’s interests.