Supreme Court Senior Associate Justice Antonio Carpio has sounded a warning regarding the implications of the Kaliwa Dam project, which is being funded by China. According to Carpio, this project shares similarities with the Reed Bank gas deal, where the Philippines risked putting up its natural resources as collateral to secure Chinese funding.
In an effort to address the country’s energy needs and promote economic development, the Philippine government has been exploring various infrastructure projects, including the Kaliwa Dam. However, Carpio’s warning raises concerns about the potential consequences of entering into agreements that compromise national sovereignty.
Carpio’s position is rooted in his long-standing advocacy for protecting the country’s territorial integrity and avoiding deals that may lead to further Chinese encroachment on Philippine territory. His warnings serve as a reminder of the need for careful consideration and scrutiny in making decisions that impact the nation’s future.