Former Supreme Court Associate Justice Antonio Carpio recently expressed his views on the alleged ‘gentleman’s deal’ between former President Rodrigo Duterte and China regarding the West Philippine Sea (WPS) dispute. According to Carpio, this agreement is disadvantageous to the Philippines and does not apply to formal country policy.
Carpio emphasized that the ‘gentleman’s deal’ is a personal understanding between two individuals, which may not align with the country’s official stance on the WPS issue. He pointed out that the agreement’s limitations on resupply missions to the Philippine outpost in Ayungin Shoal are particularly concerning.
In an interview, Carpio explained that the ‘gentleman’s deal’ is not a binding document and does not supersede existing laws and treaties governing the WPS. He urged the government to clarify its position on the issue and to ensure that any agreement with China respects the country’s sovereignty and territorial integrity.