President Rodrigo Duterte designated Presidential Spokesperson Harry Roque to represent him in the West Philippine Sea (WPS) issues debate versus retired Associate Justice Antonio Carpio.
Roque made the announcement on Friday afternoon (May 7) in PTV’s afternoon newscast, saying he is prepared to face Carpio even if the latter is joined by former Foreign Affairs Secretary Albert del Rosario.
“Sabihin lang ng Philippine Bar Association kung kailan, saan ang debate, at sisipot tayo roon,” he said, while assuring that the debate will push through.
“Ang pagdedebatehan ay malinaw. Unang-una, sino ang responsible sa pagkawala ng teritoryo ng Pilipinas – si Presidente Duterte ba, o ang ibang administrasyon?” he said.
Roque added that the debate will focus on Carpio’s claim that Duterte set aside the arbitral ruling favoring the Philippines over China.
He clarified that Duterte is not backing out from the challenge but rather, listened to the advice of his Cabinet.
“Handang-handa po sana ang Presidente na dumebate, pero kagabi po tinanggap po niya ang advice ng ilang mga miyembro ng Gabinete,” Roque said.
He added that it is not fair for the president to face an “ordinary” lawyer.
“Nakaupo pa siyang Presidente. Ibig sabihin, lahat ng masasabi ng Presidente doon sa debateng iyon ay makakaapekto sa mga polisiya ng gobyerno,” Roque explained.
On May 5, the Chief Executive challenged the retired associate justice to debate on the WPS issue, particularly on the withdrawal of Philippine vessels from the area in the Scarborough standoff of 2012.
Carpio accepted the challenge on May 6, saying “I gladly accept the challenge anytime at the President’s convenience.” – Report from Mela Lesmoras/AG-jlo
Watch this report from Mela Lesmoras:
