Former Supreme Court Senior Associate Justice Antonio Carpio shed light on the Philippines’ delayed exploration of the Reed Bank, attributing it to a ‘lack of political will.’ In an exclusive interview with ANC’s Karen Davila, Carpio emphasized the importance of asserting the country’s sovereign rights over the West Philippine Sea. As the nation marks its 9th anniversary of Manila’s arbitral win against China, Carpio highlighted the need for strong leadership and determination to reclaim what is rightfully theirs. The veteran jurist underscored that the exploration of Reed Bank has been hindered by a lack of commitment from government officials, despite the country’s rightful claim over the area.
Carpio’s insight provides valuable context on the complexities surrounding the Philippines’ stance on the West Philippine Sea, underscoring the critical role of leadership in addressing territorial disputes. As an esteemed legal expert and advocate for national sovereignty, Carpio’s perspective is invaluable in navigating this contentious issue.