PH, China start oil, gas talks

National

THE Philippines and China have begun initial discussions on potential oil and gas exploration in the South China Sea as both countries resumed bilateral talks to manage ongoing maritime disputes.

Delegations from Manila and Beijing met during the 24th Foreign Ministry Consultations and the 11th Bilateral Consultation Mechanism (BCM) on the South China Sea held on March 27 and 28 in Quanzhou City, Fujian province.

In a Philstar report, the Philippine delegation was led by Foreign Affairs Undersecretary Leo Herrera-Lim, while China was represented by Vice Foreign Minister Sun Weidong.

Both sides explored preliminary steps toward possible energy cooperation, including oil and gas exploration, while emphasizing the need to ensure stable access to energy and fertilizers amid global uncertainties.

The discussions came days after President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. declared a state of national energy emergency due to the impact of the ongoing Middle East conflict on fuel supply and prices.

According to the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA), the talks also covered potential cooperation in renewable energy, trade, and agriculture.

“Both sides continued to make progress on practical measures… including coast guard communication, ocean meteorology, and initial exchanges on potential oil and gas cooperation,” the DFA said in a statement.

The meetings are expected to pave the way for a possible dialogue between the foreign ministers of both countries within the year.

The Philippines also reaffirmed its commitment to uphold a rules-based order and maintain a responsible role as chair of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) in promoting regional peace and stability. (Rodgelyn C. Morales, CTU-TC BAEL-ELSD Intern)