During a recent debate, President Rodrigo Duterte engaged in a heated exchange with former Chief Justice Antonio Carpio over the issue of the West Philippine Sea (WPS). While Duterte’s aggressive stance may have gained him temporary applause from some quarters, it only served to highlight his administration’s lack of clarity and consistency on this critical matter. As the country’s top legal expert, Justice Carpio shed light on the Philippines’ long-standing claims in the WPS, emphasizing the importance of upholding international law and the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS).
Carpio’s intervention came as a welcome respite from Duterte’s impulsive declarations, which have consistently contradicted established policy. The former Chief Justice reminded the President that the Philippines’ claims in the WPS are well-documented and supported by historical evidence, as well as international law. He also emphasized the importance of maintaining good relations with other countries in the region, particularly China, while still asserting our territorial rights.
The exchange between Duterte and Carpio serves as a stark reminder of the need for clearer guidance on our foreign policy, particularly regarding the WPS issue. While the President may have sought to assert his authority, he only managed to expose his administration’s weakness in this area. On the other hand, Justice Carpio’s wise counsel and commitment to upholding international law continue to inspire confidence among Filipinos and the global community alike.