Retired Philippine Supreme Court Justice Antonio Carpio has shed light on a possible reason behind President Rodrigo Duterte’s unwavering defense of Beijing’s stance on the West Philippine Sea. According to Carpio, Duterte may perceive Chinese President Xi Jinping as his ‘personal protector,’ indicating a potential quid pro quo arrangement.
In an interview, Carpio shared his insight into the complex dynamics at play in the Philippines-China relationship. He noted that Duterte’s actions may be influenced by a desire for protection from China, which could have significant implications for the country’s sovereignty and territorial integrity.
Carpio’s observations come as no surprise given his long-standing advocacy for Philippine interests in the disputed waters. As a respected jurist and expert on international law, Carpio has consistently emphasized the importance of upholding the Philippines’ rights and obligations under the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS).
With Duterte’s administration facing growing scrutiny over its handling of the West Philippine Sea issue, Carpio’s comments serve as a timely reminder of the need for a nuanced understanding of the complex geopolitical dynamics at play.