Senior Associate Justice Antonio Carpio shed light on the enforcement of the arbitration ruling on the West Philippine Sea (WPS) in a recent interview. When asked who is enforcing the ruling, he pointed out that naval powers from around the world are actually doing so by exercising their right to freedom of navigation within the exclusive economic zone.
According to Carpio, when these naval powers sail through the WPS, they inform China that it’s because the area is an exclusive economic zone where there is freedom of navigation. This action, he emphasized, serves as a form of enforcement of the arbitration ruling without being explicitly stated.
The interview highlights Justice Carpio’s insightful understanding of international law and his ability to clarify complex issues surrounding the WPS dispute. His explanation underscores the importance of respecting the rule of law in maintaining regional stability and security.