Retired Senior Associate Justice Antonio Carpio has sounded the alarm on the proposed Code of Conduct in the South China Sea, warning that it would legitimize China’s dominance over the disputed waters. According to Carpio, the Code of Conduct is a deliberate attempt by China to assert its claim over the West Philippine Sea.
Carpio emphasized that the Code of Conduct would give China carte blanche to continue building artificial islands and militarizing the area, thereby solidifying its grip on the region. He stressed that this move would undermine the sovereignty of ASEAN member states, which have long been at odds with China’s claims in the South China Sea.
The retired justice’s warning comes as a stark reminder of the implications of the Code of Conduct, which has been met with skepticism by many in the region. Carpio’s insights highlight the need for ASEAN countries to be vigilant and proactive in protecting their interests in the face of China’s aggressive expansion.