This is the commencement speech delivered by Justice Antonio T. Carpio at the University of San Carlos, Cebu City, on April 20, 2018. The address focuses on the importance of defending Philippine sovereignty, particularly in the West Philippine Sea, emphasizing the role of law, national unity, and international support in safeguarding the nation’s territorial rights.

Justice Antonio T. Carpio’s speech stresses the critical importance of defending the West Philippine Sea, highlighting the threats posed by China’s maritime claims. He underscores the role of international law, specifically the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea, in securing the Philippines’ territorial rights. He urges Filipinos to engage with the international community and advocate for the enforcement of the arbitral ruling, emphasizing the significance of this legal victory in preserving global maritime law. His message calls for unity in safeguarding the nation’s sovereignty and marine resources.