Palace hopes Carpio would reach ‘enlightenment’ on WPS

MANILA, Philippines — Despite their differences over the West Philippine Sea dispute, Malacañang yesterday wished former senior associate justice Antonio Carpio well in his retirement and encouraged him to stick to his principles until he attains “enlightenment.” 

Carpio, a leading figure in the Philippines’ legal victory against China’s expansive claim to the West Philippine Sea, retired from the judiciary last Oct. 26 but vowed to continue defending the country’s maritime claims. 

He has been critical of President Duterte’s handling of the maritime dispute, including the President’s pronouncement that he would set aside the arbitral ruling that favored the Philippines to seek stronger ties with China. 

“We wish him well on the new chapter of his life. He has served his country well, he was a competent and sensible justice, we commend him for that,” presidential spokesman Salvador Panelo said in a radio interview. 

“We don’t agree with his position on the West Philippine Sea but then, it’s a free country. As we said before, he has the right to criticize and to give suggestions. What is important is while his position goes against our position, it was based on his love for his country,” he added. 

Asked to react to Carpio’s statement that he would continue defending the Philippines’ claims in the West Philippine Sea, Panelo replied: “If a person adheres to a principle, he should stick to it. It should be pursued regardless of his situation in life. As long as one lives, it should be pursued until he reaches enlightenment.” 

Panelo said it would be Duterte’s call whether to appoint Carpio as a legal consultant. 

The US, meanwhile, said it believes Carpio will continue to be a strong voice for justice and the rule of law in the Philippines.

Former foreign affairs secretary Albert del Rosario lauded Carpio, who had given assurance he would remain a strong defender of Philippine territory and maritime entitlements in the West Philippine Sea (South China Sea) even after he retired. – With Pia Lee-Brago