Former Supreme Court Associate Justice Antonio Carpio has shed light on the recent developments in the West Philippine Sea, where China has been harassing survey ships. In a recent interview, Justice Carpio emphasized the importance of joint patrols with allies as a deterrent to China’s aggressive behavior. According to him, this strategy would not only ensure the safety of Philippine vessels but also demonstrate the country’s commitment to protecting its maritime rights.
Carpio pointed out that China’s claims in the South China Sea are largely baseless, citing the 2016 arbitral ruling that invalidated China’s nine-dash line. He stressed that the Philippines has a legitimate claim to the waters within its Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) and that joint patrols with other countries would help reinforce this claim.
The former justice also touched on the significance of having a robust military presence in the region, which he believes is essential for maintaining peace and stability. Carpio emphasized that the Philippines must be prepared to defend its territory and protect its people from any potential threats.
In conclusion, Justice Carpio’s insights on the West Philippine Sea have shed light on the complexities of the issue and highlighted the importance of a unified approach to addressing China’s provocations.