The former Supreme Court justice is calling for building up the nation’s self-defense force and forging closer military ties with regional neighbors. Carpio warns that another Trump presidency in the US could introduce changes in global alliances unfavorable to the Philippines. “If you don’t fortify your defenses, you will be erased from the map. That has happened to many countries. And it could happen to us.” With sea level rise, Carpio argues, the Philippines’ “exclusive economic zone” will only get larger. “So all we have to do is hang on to our claim. Never, never give up our claim because everything will be underwater in that area by the end of the century.” CREDITS: Producer: Ivy Andrada-Bautista Researcher: Jenica Villanueva Editor: Jayr Magtoto