The Philippines and China have resumed high-level consultations, with both sides exploring possible cooperation in oil and gas development alongside broader dialogue, the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) said.

In a statement, the DFA said the two countries held back-to-back meetings of the 24th Foreign Ministry Consultations (FMC) and the 11th Bilateral Consultation Mechanism (BCM) on the South China Sea from March 27 to 28 in Quanzhou, China.

The DFA said both sides made progress on practical measures, including “initial exchanges on potential oil and gas cooperation,” as part of efforts to build confidence and expand areas of collaboration.

In a Bloomberg interview, President Marcos said the Philippines has long been in talks with China on possible joint development of gas resources in disputed areas of the South China Sea amid the ongoing conflict in the Middle East.

In response, the Chinese Embassy in Manila expressed willingness to pursue joint development, provided the Philippines demonstrates sincerity in negotiations.

Despite ongoing discussions, the Philippines reiterated its position on the West Philippine Sea.

The DFA said Manila raised concerns over incidents affecting Filipino personnel and fishermen and “firmly reiterated its principled positions.”

The Philippines also emphasized adherence to international law, including the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) and the 2016 arbitral ruling.

At the FMC, both sides engaged in a “candid and productive exchange” on key bilateral issues, including political-security matters and law enforcement.

The Philippines reaffirmed its commitment to pursue cooperation while ensuring that engagements align with national interests.

The talks also covered cooperation in energy, fertilizers, agriculture, and trade amid global uncertainties, including developments in the Middle East.

Both sides underscored the need for stable access to critical resources and agreed to continue discussions through appropriate bilateral mechanisms.

The DFA said the meetings also highlighted efforts to enhance people-to-people ties, including tourism, visa arrangements, and improved connectivity through potential new direct air routes.

China is also set to host a marine science and technology symposium in September 2026, with participation from the Philippines.

The consultations build on earlier rounds of dialogue held in Cebu and Beijing this year and are expected to pave the way for a meeting between the two countries’ foreign ministers.

The DFA said the engagements follow President Marcos' directive to pursue diplomacy with China while protecting Philippine sovereignty and sovereign rights.