Former Supreme Court Associate Justice Antonio Carpio has argued that China cannot invoke historical rights to claim the South China Sea. This stance is in line with the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS), which has been ratified by all its member states.
Carpio’s assertion highlights the complexities surrounding territorial claims and the importance of adhering to international law. The dispute over the South China Sea has been a longstanding issue, with various countries having competing interests in the region.
The UNCLOS provides a framework for nations to resolve maritime disputes peacefully. However, China’s actions have raised concerns among its neighbors and the international community, with many questioning the legitimacy of its claims.