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Manila Bulletin devider Philippines devider National devider China says door to dialogue 'open' on joint oil exploration with PH

China says door to dialogue 'open' on joint oil exploration with PH

Published Mar 26, 2026 12:19 pm  |  Updated Mar 26, 2026 03:20 pm
The Chinese embassy in Manila has welcomed President Marcos' pronouncement that the Philippines is open to the possibility of joint oil exploration with China amid the looming oil crisis brought by the Middle East conflict.
Guo Wei, deputy spokesman for the embassy, said setting aside both countries' differences, referring to the disputes over the West Philippine Sea, and pursuing joint development "is the right path to uphold peace and stability in the South China Sea."
It also delivers "benefits to countries in the region and their peoples," he added.
According to Guo, China and the Philippines have conducted in-depth discussions on joint oil and gas development in disputed waters in the South China Sea and have made positive progress.
"As long as the Philippine side demonstrates sincerity, China’s door to dialogue and cooperation will remain open," he added.
In a recent Bloomberg interview, President Marcos said that joint oil exploration with Beijing "is that something we've been talking about for a great deal."
Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) Secretary Ma. Theresa Lazaro also said talks might be "forthcoming," although none has been restarted "at this point in time."
Marcos and Chinese President Xi Jinping had already raised the possibility of joint exploration when they met in Beijing in 2023.

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Xi Jinping China President Marcos oil exploration Chinese Embassy in Manila PH-China Guo Wei
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