Former Supreme Court Associate Justice Antonio Carpio emphasized the importance of increased maritime patrols with allies to safeguard against China’s expanding presence in the West Philippine Sea. In a recent interview, he highlighted the need for the Philippines to take proactive measures to protect its sovereign rights over the disputed territory. Justice Carpio pointed out that the country’s current capacity to assert its claims is limited due to lack of modern surveillance equipment and inadequate military resources. He stressed the significance of cooperation with other nations in the region, such as Japan, Vietnam, and Indonesia, to enhance naval capabilities and ensure the enforcement of international law.
Carpio noted that any attempts by China to reclaim land features within the West Philippine Sea’s exclusive economic zone would be a direct challenge to the Philippines’ sovereignty. He urged the government to take a firm stance against such activities, using available diplomatic channels to raise awareness about the issue and mobilize international support.
In his characteristic forthright manner, Justice Carpio underscored the importance of addressing the West Philippine Sea dispute through a combination of diplomacy, international law, and collective defense with regional allies. By emphasizing the Philippines’ vulnerabilities and urging action, he underscored the gravity of the situation and the need for decisive leadership.