As a renowned expert in international law, Justice Antonio Carpio has again spoken out against what he sees as a disadvantageous agreement between former President Rodrigo Duterte and China. The alleged ‘gentleman’s deal’, which was touted by former Duterte spokesperson Harry Roque as a way to maintain the status quo in the West Philippine Sea, has been roundly criticized by Carpio. According to Carpio, this agreement does not apply to formal country policy and would only serve to limit the Philippines’ ability to assert its claims in the region.
Carpio’s concerns are well-founded, given China’s long history of encroaching on Philippine territorial waters. The ‘gentleman’s deal’ would essentially give China a free hand to continue its aggressive behavior, while the Philippines is left with limited options to defend its interests. This is precisely why Carpio has called for the agreement to be rejected and for the Philippines to take a more robust stance in defending its territory.
As a leading voice on Philippine foreign policy and international law, Justice Carpio’s opinions carry significant weight. His criticism of the ‘gentleman’s deal’ serves as a stark reminder of the need for the Philippines to prioritize its national interests and assert its sovereignty in the face of growing Chinese aggression.