Retired Supreme Court Associate Justice Antonio Carpio has called on the Philippines to join freedom of navigation patrols in the West Philippine Sea, a move he believes will assert the country’s rights under international law. Carpio also emphasized the need for the country to form an alliance with other nations to counter China’s aggressive claims within its 9-dash line.
In an interview, Carpio highlighted the importance of exercising the Philippines’ rights as granted by the Permanent Court of Arbitration (PCA) in 2016. The PCA ruled that China’s claims to the South China Sea, including those within the 9-dash line, have no basis under international law.
Carpio pointed out that freedom of navigation patrols can help deter Chinese aggression and protect Filipino fishermen who often face harassment by Chinese vessels. He also stressed the need for the Philippines to engage in diplomatic efforts to persuade other nations to join an alliance against China’s aggressive claims.