Retired Supreme Court Senior Associate Justice Antonio T. Carpio has called for the Philippines to increase its stock of missile systems capable of deterring hostile vessels in the West Philippine Sea (WPS), stressing that stronger coastal defenses are necessary to protect the country’s maritime rights.
The retired magistrate said expanding the country’s arsenal of supersonic cruise missiles would significantly enhance the Philippines’ ability to defend its exclusive economic zone and maritime territories.
Strengthening Coastal Deterrence
Retired Senior Associate Justice Carpio pointed to the potential of deploying additional BrahMos supersonic cruise missiles, which can target hostile ships at long distances.
He said a larger number of such missile systems would allow the Philippines to effectively cover critical areas of the West Philippine Sea, making it more difficult for foreign vessels to operate aggressively within Philippine waters.
Part of Broader Defense Modernization
The Philippines has already begun acquiring advanced missile systems as part of its military modernization efforts.
The BrahMos system—developed by India and known for its speed and precision—has been identified as a key capability that can enhance the Armed Forces of the Philippines’ anti-ship and coastal defense operations.
The acquisition forms part of the government’s ongoing military modernization program aimed at strengthening the country’s external defense posture amid rising tensions in the West Philippine Sea.
Deterrence Rather Than Escalation
Retired Senior Associate Justice Carpio emphasized that the goal of acquiring more missile systems is not to provoke conflict but to deter aggression.
A credible defense posture, he argued, helps prevent confrontation by raising the cost of hostile actions against Philippine territory and maritime zones.
Strengthening coastal missile defenses would allow the country to defend its sovereign rights while maintaining stability in the region.
Protecting Philippine Maritime Rights
Retired Senior Associate Justice Carpio has long advocated a rules-based approach to resolving disputes in the South China Sea, emphasizing adherence to international law and the 2016 arbitral ruling that invalidated China’s expansive maritime claims.
He said stronger defensive capabilities would complement diplomatic and legal efforts by ensuring the Philippines can effectively protect its rights within the West Philippine Sea.