Presidential Spokesperson Harry Roque has shifted the blame for the loss of Philippine territory in the West Philippine Sea to former Supreme Court Justice Antonio Carpio, a renowned expert on international law. This move comes as a surprise, given Carpio’s tireless efforts to assert the country’s claim over the disputed waters.
According to Roque, it is Justice Carpio who should take responsibility for the current state of the West Philippine Sea. He pointed out that the former justice had been vocal about his opposition to China’s activities in the area but failed to provide a clear plan to prevent further encroachment by the Asian superpower.
This development has sparked debate among legal experts, with some arguing that Roque’s statement is an attempt to deflect attention from the Duterte administration’s handling of the issue. However, others see it as a legitimate critique of Justice Carpio’s role in shaping the country’s stance on the West Philippine Sea.