EP 34: Did factions within Aquino admin spar over PH arbitration case vs China?

Almost five ago, the Philippines did what many perhaps thought was unthinkable — we scored a historic legal victory over mighty China.

the significance of the ruling by the permanent court of arbitration cannot be overemphasized. Yes, it didn’t settle the territorial dispute between Manila and Beijing because that’s not within its jurisdiction.

But it clarified the status of features in the disputed Spratlys including maritime entitlements under international law. 

Now, it’s just a matter of abiding by the ruling which is something Beijing has conveniently ignored. 

In the meantime, the man who took China to court  passed away recently leaving behind a legacy that showed how small countries like the Philippines could topple the mightly so long as the law is in their side.

But the journey to this victory was not easy. it is said there were even factions within the Aquino administration that were “bitterly divided” over arbitration. 

In this episode, Christian Esguerra talked to Retired Supreme Court Senior Associate Justice Antonio Carpio about how the Philippines won its case against China and why it’s not a mere paper victory even if the current occupant in Malacañang has been very reluctant to enforce it.