Retired Senior Associate Justice Antonio Carpio has sounded the alarm on the growing presence of Chinese vessels in Julian Felipe Reef, a submerged coral reef in the West Philippine Sea. In an interview, Justice Carpio expressed concern that China’s increasing activity in the area may be a prelude to its long-term occupation and construction of a naval base. This development has significant implications for the Philippines’ sovereignty and territorial integrity.
Justice Carpio, a renowned expert on international law and maritime disputes, emphasized the importance of vigilance on the part of Filipinos in the face of China’s assertive actions. He noted that the presence of 183 Chinese vessels in Julian Felipe Reef is not merely a coincidental occurrence but rather a calculated move to solidify China’s claims in the region.
With China’s growing military and economic might, Justice Carpio urged Filipinos to be ‘very wary’ of its intentions. He stressed that the Philippines must remain vigilant and assertive in protecting its interests, including its sovereignty over the West Philippine Sea.