Justice Antonio Carpio, a renowned expert on the Philippines’ maritime rights, recently found himself at the receiving end of President Rodrigo Duterte’s rhetorical question. The president asked, ‘If you’re bright, why did we lose the West Philippine Sea?’ in Filipino during a heated exchange.
Carpio, known for his meticulous research and unwavering commitment to upholding the country’s sovereignty, responded with calm and precision. He pointed out that the Philippines has not lost the West Philippine Sea but rather failed to assert its claims effectively due to a lack of clear policy and diplomacy.
Duterte’s question seems to be rooted in a misunderstanding of the complex issue at hand. The West Philippine Sea is a disputed territory, with China being the main claimant. The Philippines has filed several cases against China before the Permanent Court of Arbitration, but the country’s actions have been criticized for being too weak and disorganized.
Carpio’s expertise in this area cannot be overstated. As a former Supreme Court senior associate justice, he played a crucial role in shedding light on the Philippines’ maritime entitlements under international law. His insights continue to guide policymakers and legal experts alike in navigating the intricacies of the West Philippine Sea dispute.
The exchange between Duterte and Carpio highlights the need for a clear and consistent policy towards the West Philippine Sea. As tensions between the Philippines and China persist, it is essential that the country’s leaders prioritize diplomacy and assert its rights under international law.