Retired Supreme Court Associate Justice Antonio Carpio on Monday urged the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) and other concerned government agencies to actively counter China’s claims over Bajo de Masinloc, also known as Panatag Shoal.
Carpio said the DFA must go beyond filing diplomatic protests and take stronger measures to debunk what he described as “false narratives” undermining the Philippines’ sovereignty. He cited Beijing’s recent declaration of a “national nature reserve” in the shoal as a direct violation of Philippine territorial rights.
“The DFA must clearly and assertively communicate that Bajo de Masinloc is part of Philippine territory and counter China’s misinformation both in diplomatic circles and public discourse,” Carpio stressed.
He recommended that the government use international legal avenues and global media platforms to reinforce the country’s legal position on the West Philippine Sea. According to him, such proactive steps are necessary not only to protect national sovereignty but also to uphold stability in the region.
Carpio noted that Bajo de Masinloc holds significant environmental and geopolitical importance, making it a critical point in the broader South China Sea dispute. The Philippines has repeatedly filed diplomatic protests against Chinese activities in the area, but tensions remain high.
His call highlights the continuing challenge for Philippine foreign policy in defending maritime rights against China’s expansive claims. Carpio, who has long been an advocate for the Philippines’ position in the South China Sea, reiterated that international law remains on the country’s side following the 2016 arbitral ruling in The Hague.
