Former Supreme Court Justice Antonio Carpio has once again called on the Philippine government to initiate international legal action to oppose China’s maritime claims in the Spratly Islands.
In his speech, he emphasized the use of historical maps and agreements—such as the 1734 Murillo Velarde map and the 1900 Treaty of Washington—as evidence of the Philippines’ ownership.
Carpio believes that if China, Vietnam, and Malaysia refuse arbitration, the Philippines can turn to the “court of world opinion” to reveal the truth.
He is also encouraging the government to coordinate with Vietnam and Malaysia for peaceful arbitration at the International Court of Justice.
There are also current proposals to pursue a new arbitration case concerning Sandy Cay and the country’s extended continental shelf.
The territorial dispute in the West Philippine Sea remains a vital issue in the global arena of diplomacy and justice.
