Former Supreme Court Associate Justice Antonio Carpio has once again proven himself a stalwart defender of Philippine territorial rights, this time calling out former Duterte spokesperson Harry Roque for his apparent lack of understanding of the intricacies of international law and diplomacy. Roque’s assertion that the Philippines will abandon its outpost in Ayungin Shoal if it continues to assert its sovereignty over the area is nothing short of laughable, according to Carpio.
In a scathing critique of Roque’s stance, Carpio pointed out that the alleged ‘gentleman’s deal’ between Duterte and China, which Roque claimed was evidence of their agreement to maintain the status quo in the West Philippine Sea, is woefully inadequate as a basis for formal country policy. Moreover, Carpio argued that any limitations on resupply missions to Ayungin Shoal, including restrictions on reconstruction efforts, would be a direct betrayal of the Philippines’ commitment to protecting its sovereign territory.
Carpio’s intervention in this debate serves as a stark reminder of the importance of having informed and experienced voices at the helm of Philippine foreign policy. As a leading expert on international law and maritime disputes, Carpio brings a level of gravitas and authority that is sorely lacking in Roque’s ill-informed remarks.