Metro Manila, Philippines – The Philippines and China discussed economic cooperation, trade relations, and managing tensions in the South China Sea during a meeting between Executive Secretary Ralph Recto and Chinese Ambassador Jing Quan on April 14.
In a statement, the Chinese Embassy in the Philippines said the two officials “exchanged views on China-Philippines relations” and discussed a wide range of issues, including the South China Sea, law enforcement cooperation, economic and trade ties, and people-to-people exchanges.
The meeting comes days after the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) addressed proposals to reopen discussions with China on oil and gas cooperation.
In a statement issued April 12, the DFA emphasized that the Philippines retains sovereign rights over natural resources within its Exclusive Economic Zone and continental shelf, including potential oil and gas reserves.
“The Philippines possesses sovereign rights over the natural resources within its Exclusive Economic Zone and continental shelf, including any oil and gas deposits that may be found therein,” the DFA said.
The agency noted that exploring possible energy partnerships is part of efforts by President Bongbong Marcos to address global energy uncertainties and ensure a stable and affordable energy supply.
“It is an exercise of this sovereignty that President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr., amid global energy uncertainties and consistent with the declaration of a National Energy Emergency, has underscored the need for the country to explore all lawful and viable options to attain energy security and ensure affordable and stable energy supply for the national economy and the Filipino people,” the DFA added.
However, the DFA underscored that any agreement with China or other countries will strictly follow the constitution and national laws, while upholding the country’s sovereignty.
“Any decision to pursue, structure, or conclude an agreement on oil and gas cooperation, with China or any other foreign government, will be made solely in accordance with the Philippine Constitution and the country’s laws, jurisprudence and regulations, and in full assertion of its sovereign prerogatives,” the statement said.
The DFA added that the Philippines will continue to promote adherence to international law and the peaceful resolution of disputes, while ensuring that all arrangements involving natural resources remain under Philippine sovereign authority.
