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Manila Bulletin devider Philippines devider National devider PH to uphold sovereignty in any oil deal talks with China, other countries—DFA

PH to uphold sovereignty in any oil deal talks with China, other countries—DFA

Published Apr 12, 2026 08:54 pm
Hundreds of Filipinos continue to seek government assistance as repatriation requests rise amid ongoing tensions in the Middle East, according to the Department of Foreign Affairs. (DFA photo)
Hundreds of Filipinos continue to seek government assistance as repatriation requests rise amid ongoing tensions in the Middle East, according to the Department of Foreign Affairs. (DFA photo)
Any potential resumption of discussion on oil agreement with China or other countries will be firmly anchored on Philippine sovereignty and in full compliance with the Constitution and existing laws, the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) said.
In a statement on Sunday, April 12, the DFA said that while President Marcos is open to explore "all lawful and viable options" to attain energy security amid the Middle East crisis, the country continues to uphold its sovereign rights over the natural resources within its exclusive economic zone (EEZ) and continental shelf, including any oil and gas deposits that may be found therein.
"It is an exercise of this sovereignty that President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr., amid global energy uncertainties and consistent with the declaration of a National Energy Emergency, has underscored the need for the country to explore all lawful and viable options to attain energy security and ensure affordable and stable energy supply for the national economy and the Filipino people," the DFA said.
"Any decision to pursue, structure, or conclude an agreement on oil and gas cooperation, with China or any other foreign government, will be made solely in accordance with the Philippine Constitution and the country’s laws, jurisprudence and regulations, and in full assertion of its sovereign prerogatives," the agency stressed.
The department also emphasized that it will continue to work with government agencies to ensure that any oil and gas cooperation arrangement is anchored in the primacy of Philippine sovereignty.
This, as Marcos issued a directive to maintain open lines of communication and utilize diplomacy in engaging with China, including on energy matters.
The DFA said it will continue to promote adherence to international law, the peaceful settlement of disputes, and the centrality of Philippine sovereign authority in matters related to the country's natural resources and maritime entitlements.
The Foreign Affairs department issued the statement following recent public statements on the proposed re-opening of discussions between the Philippines and China on oil and gas cooperation.

Related Tags

DFA oil exploration PH-China sovereignty Energy Emergency
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