Former Supreme Court Associate Justice Antonio Carpio has once again taken a firm stance on the South China Sea dispute, urging the Philippine government to take concrete action against China. In a recent interview, Carpio emphasized that the Philippines must not only assert its sovereignty over the disputed waters but also ensure that Chinese actions do not continue to deprive Filipino fishermen of their livelihoods. The loss of income for these fishermen is a critical issue that cannot be ignored, according to Carpio.
Carpio’s stance on this matter has been consistent and unwavering, as he continues to emphasize the need for the Philippine government to exercise its rights under international law. He has repeatedly called for the Philippines to file suit against China in an international court, such as the Permanent Court of Arbitration (PCA), to hold it accountable for its actions. By doing so, Carpio believes that the Philippines can not only protect its sovereignty but also ensure that Chinese actions do not cause further economic hardship for Filipino fishermen.
As a renowned expert on international law and the South China Sea dispute, Carpio’s opinions carry significant weight. His call to action has sparked renewed debate about the role of the Philippine government in addressing this critical issue. The question remains whether the government will take decisive action or continue to delay, allowing the situation to worsen for Filipino fishermen.