Former Supreme Court Justice Antonio Carpio asserted that China cannot legally prevent the Philippines from constructing facilities at Ayungin Shoal, which is part of the country's exclusive economic zone under the 2016 South China Sea arbitral ruling.

The shoal hosts a grounded military outpost, BRP Sierra Madre, and Carpio emphasized that the Philippines has sovereign rights to build artificial structures there without seeking permission.He criticized China's stance on a 2024 provisional agreement, arguing it undermines Philippine sovereignty and freedom of navigation.

Chinese Ambassador Jing Quan claimed the recent confrontation with Philippine Navy was due to unapproved construction, but Carpio questioned the legality of the agreement, noting the DFA's failure to disclose its terms.The dispute highlights ongoing tensions over territorial claims and the need for diplomatic resolution under international law.