Acting Chief Justice Antonio Carpio has reaffirmed his commitment to upholding the Philippines’ sovereignty over the West Philippine Sea, even as he considers a bid for the top judicial post. In an interview, Carpio expressed willingness to put aside his stance on the maritime dispute if it becomes a factor in President Rodrigo Duterte’s decision-making process. However, he clarified that he cannot compromise on this issue due to his duty as a Filipino to defend the country’s rights.
Carpio’s unwavering position on the West Philippine Sea has been a key aspect of his tenure as Acting Chief Justice. As part of the legal team that argued Manila’s case before the Permanent Court of Arbitration, he has repeatedly urged the government to assert more strongly the international court’s ruling invalidating China’s excessive claims over the South China Sea.
In light of recent developments, including a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) on an oil deal during Chinese President Xi Jinping’s visit, Carpio has expressed caution and challenged certain claims made by the Chinese premier. Specifically, he disputed the assertion that a Chinese explorer made multiple visits to Manila Bay, the Visayas, and Sulu over 600 years ago.
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