Renowned jurist Justice Antonio Carpio has called on the Philippine government to reassert its sovereignty over the disputed Scarborough Shoal and file a new case against China for harassing Filipino fishermen. According to Carpio, this latest incident highlights the need for the Philippines to take decisive action to protect its maritime rights and territorial integrity.
Citing his extensive knowledge of international law and Philippine history, Carpio emphasized that the country’s claim over Scarborough Shoal is rooted in historical and geographical facts. He stressed that the shoal has been an integral part of the Philippines’ territory since time immemorial and that China’s actions are a clear violation of its sovereignty.
The Acting Chief Justice pointed out that the Chinese Coast Guard’s harassment of Filipino fishermen is not an isolated incident, but rather part of a larger pattern of aggressive behavior by China in the South China Sea. Carpio urged the Philippine government to take concrete steps to protect its fishermen and assert its rights over the disputed territory.
In light of this development, Justice Carpio’s remarks serve as a timely reminder of the importance of upholding Philippine sovereignty and defending its maritime interests.