In a recent statement, former Supreme Court Associate Justice Antonio Carpio emphasized that China's attempts to obstruct Philippine construction activities at Ayungin Shoal are baseless. He reaffirmed that the shoal is within the Philippines' exclusive economic zone (EEZ), as established by the 2016 arbitral ruling.
Philippine Sovereignty Affirmed
The Arbitral Award declared Ayungin Shoal part of the exclusive economic zone (EEZ) of the Philippines. In the EEZ, there is freedom of navigation and overflight for all states.
Antonio Carpio, Former Supreme Court Associate Justice
Carpio pointed out that the Philippines, as the adjacent coastal state, holds exclusive rights to develop the shoal without any foreign permission. He questioned the legality of any agreements that might require notifying China prior to any Philippine actions in the area.
Following recent confrontations between Philippine and Chinese vessels near Ayungin, Carpio's remarks come at a critical time. He noted that the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) faces challenges with China's claims of a supposed agreement limiting Philippine activities at the shoal.
Chinese Ambassador Jing Quan had previously accused the Philippines of violating agreements regarding construction activities at Ayungin. Tensions escalated recently when Chinese Coast Guard personnel allegedly clashed with Philippine Navy troops.
Despite the pressures from China, Carpio reiterated that the Philippines must maintain its rights to navigate and build in the EEZ. He highlighted the importance of asserting these rights under the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS).
As military engagements continue to heighten in the South China Sea, the Philippines must remain steadfast in its sovereignty claims, especially regarding areas like Ayungin Shoal that are vital to national interests.