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Manila Bulletin devider Business devider Trade & Industry devider FFCCCII backs Marcos push for Philippine-China joint energy exploration

FFCCCII backs Marcos push for Philippine-China joint energy exploration

Published Mar 26, 2026 04:29 pm
FFCCCII President Victor Lim
FFCCCII President Victor Lim


The Federation of Filipino Chinese Chambers of Commerce and Industry Inc. (FFCCCII) has expressed support for the government’s move to revive joint oil and gas exploration talks with China, citing the need for energy security amid global volatility.

“FFCCCII welcomes the pronouncement of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. regarding the prospective reset of the discussions on joint oil and gas explorations in the West Philippine Sea,” FFCCCII president Victor Lim said in a statement on Thursday, March 26.

The business group’s statement comes as Manila and Beijing signal openness to resume dialogue on energy cooperation, even as territorial disputes persist.

Earlier, Marcos said Philippine-China relations are “evolving” and that the government is exploring ways to pursue joint gas development, while Chinese officials have indicated that the door to talks remains open.

Lim emphasized the importance of balancing geopolitical tensions with economic cooperation, particularly in the energy sector.

“In these times of unprecedented geopolitical uncertainties and tumult and as global energy markets face unprecedented volatility, we are encouraged by the President’s pronouncement that the Philippines continues to pursue the differentiation of territorial disputes from economic engagement which reflect a mature and pragmatic approach to statecraft. This statement shows the President’s commitment to ensuring our country’s future and well-being,” he said.

For FFCCCII, rising global energy risks—exacerbated by ongoing conflicts and supply uncertainties—underscore the urgency of securing stable energy sources for the Philippines, a net oil importer.

“We firmly believe that practical cooperation in energy security offers a viable pathway to securing a stable, affordable and sustainable energy future,” Lim said.

The group also called for broader support from stakeholders, stressing the economic benefits of maintaining engagement with key partners.

“We urge all stakeholders in the country to support this pragmatic course, as the pursuit of common ground serves the highest interests of the Filipino people, the stability of the region, and the enduring vitality of our economic partnerships,” Lim added.

The renewed push for joint exploration comes as the Philippines grapples with energy supply risks and price volatility, prompting the government to explore both domestic and international solutions to ensure long-term energy security.

Marcos last Tuesday, March 24, declared a state of national energy emergency amid persistent oil price and supply shocks, threatening to drain the country’s energy reserves and destabilize the economy.

Related Tags

Federation of Filipino Chinese Chambers of Commerce and Industry Inc. (FFCCCII) West Philippine Sea
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