Philippines’ Marcos says China oil talks have ‘moved forward’ despite maritime row
Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jnr on Friday said talks with China on joint oil and gas exploration had “moved forward” – signalling hopes of a deal before he leaves office in mid-2028, despite ongoing tensions in the South China Sea. Marcos also confirmed for the first time a “provisional understanding” with Beijing over resupply missions to the BRP Sierra Madre at Second Thomas Shoal,…
Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. said on Friday that discussions with China on potential joint oil and gas exploration have moved forward, despite ongoing tensions in the South China Sea. This comes as Marcos prepares to leave office in mid-2028. He confirmed for the first time a "provisional understanding" with Beijing over resupply missions to the BRP Sierra Madre, a WWII warship stationed at Second Thomas Shoal, but emphasized it does not mean Manila seeks China's permission or surrenders sovereignty.
Marcos stressed that the relationship with China remains strong, describing them as "friends" and stating that economic engagement will continue. He dismissed the idea that the Philippines is distancing itself from the US, clarifying that the Pax Silica arrangement with the US is not an alternative to Chinese investments. Marcos also ruled out US forces using the Philippines as a military launch pad against China in the event of a Taiwan contingency, maintaining that the focus is on defending Philippine territory and maintaining regional peace and stability.
Written by urgent.news from South China Morning Post's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
