Former Supreme Court Senior Associate Justice Antonio Carpio expressed support for a stronger Philippine response to recent actions by China, including the possibility of reciprocal measures against Chinese officials and the filing of a second arbitration case under international law.
The remarks came amid discussions on China’s reported decision to prohibit Philippine Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro Jr. from entering China. Justice Carpio said the Philippines should consider responding in kind by imposing a similar restriction on Chinese officials involved in actions directed against the Philippines. According to him, reciprocity is a recognized principle in international relations and may be used to convey the country’s position when dealing with diplomatic disputes.
Support for Reciprocal Measures
Justice Carpio said the Philippine government should not simply ignore actions taken against senior Philippine officials. He argued that reciprocal measures send a clear signal that the Philippines is prepared to defend its interests and respond to actions it considers inappropriate or unfriendly.
His comments followed reports that China had imposed sanctions or restrictions against Secretary Teodoro, one of the Philippine government’s most outspoken officials on West Philippine Sea issues.
Push for a Second Arbitration Case
Justice Carpio also reiterated his support for pursuing a second arbitration case against China.
He argued that while the landmark 2016 Arbitral Award invalidated China’s expansive maritime claims and affirmed key Philippine rights under the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS), new developments in the West Philippine Sea may warrant additional legal action.
According to Justice Carpio, international arbitration remains one of the most effective peaceful mechanisms available to the Philippines in defending its maritime entitlements and challenging actions that may be inconsistent with international law.
Government Reaffirms Commitment to Rules-Based Order
Separately, Philippine officials reiterated the country’s commitment to resolving disputes through peaceful means and in accordance with international law.
Government representatives emphasized the importance of protecting Philippine sovereign rights and maritime entitlements while continuing diplomatic engagement and cooperation with regional and international partners.
Source:
https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1277504
Legal and Diplomatic Options Remain Central
The latest developments underscore the continuing role of legal and diplomatic tools in the Philippines’ approach to the West Philippine Sea dispute.
A decade after the 2016 Arbitral Award, discussions continue on how the Philippines can best protect its maritime rights through a combination of diplomacy, international law, and strategic partnerships. Justice Carpio’s call for a possible second arbitration case reflects the continuing debate on the next steps available to the country as tensions in the West Philippine Sea persist.