Former Supreme Court Senior Associate Justice Antonio Carpio has emphasized the importance of the Philippines asserting its sovereignty in the West Philippine Sea. He believes that joint patrols with the United States would be an effective way for the country to protect its rights and interests in the region.
Carpio, a renowned expert on international law, pointed out that the Philippines can better assert its claims against China after President Rodrigo Duterte’s term. He noted that Duterte’s decision not to pursue joint patrols with the US has allowed China to continue its aggressive actions in the area.
The West Philippine Sea is a disputed territory claimed by China, Taiwan, and several Southeast Asian countries. The Philippines has been vocal about its claim to the area, but Carpio believes that joint patrols with the US would be a more effective way to protect its sovereignty.
Carpio’s proposal comes at a time when tensions in the region are escalating. China has been increasingly assertive in its claims, and the US has been trying to reassure its allies in the region about its commitment to defense.