Acting Chief Justice Antonio Carpio has reiterated the importance of preserving the Philippines’ victory in the arbitration case against China over the territorial dispute in the West Philippine Sea. Despite the Duterte administration’s decision to set aside the ruling, Carpio emphasized that it is crucial for the government to maintain the country’s rights and interests in the disputed waters.
Carpio pointed out that non-action by the Philippine government could be seen as waiving its rights, and urged the administration to formally lodge a diplomatic protest against China’s increasing militarization of the vital sea lane. He also highlighted the significance of preserving ancient maps, such as the Murillo-Velarde map, which has been instrumental in exposing China’s historical lies.
The acting SC justice emphasized that any deal with China should not come at the expense of the country’s control over its Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ), which is far larger than the total land area of the Philippines. He also reiterated his earlier warning that inaction by the Philippine government could be seen as acquiescing to China’s claims.
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