Retired Supreme Court Associate Justice Antonio Carpio has revealed that President Rodrigo Duterte deliberately blocked efforts to take a stronger stance against China’s aggression in the West Philippine Sea. During an ANC Soundbytes press conference, Carpio stressed that the Philippines has a legitimate claim to the disputed territories and emphasized the need for a more assertive approach in asserting its rights.
Carpio pointed out that Duterte’s administration has failed to adequately defend the country’s interests in the South China Sea, despite repeated warnings from the Supreme Court. He noted that the President’s actions have emboldened China’s expansionist policies and undermined regional stability.
The retired Justice also criticized the Duterte government for its reluctance to pursue international arbitration, which could have led to a more favorable outcome for the Philippines. Carpio stressed that the country’s failure to assert its rights has resulted in significant economic losses and compromised national security.