Retired Justice Antonio T. Carpio expresses readiness to join a public debate on the legality of the West Philippine Sea and the Philippines’ maritime claims, emphasizing the need to clarify legal principles and educate the public on national sovereignty rights.
Justice Carpio recounts how Sandy Cay became a permanent island and was effectively seized by China in 2017, challenging official denials and highlighting the implications for Philippine territorial sovereignty in the West Philippine Sea.
An analysis of the West Philippine Sea dispute, tracing historical maritime claims, China’s 9-dashed line, and the Philippines’ legal rights under UNCLOS. Justice Carpio explains why arbitration and the Rule of Law are essential for sovereignty and regional stability.