Palace: National interest won't be compromised if PH holds joint oil, gas exploration with China

The Palace has assured the public that no national interests will be compromised should the Philippines proceed with joint energy exploration with China.

While the Department of Foreign Affairs confirmed that Manila and Beijing have resumed high-level consultations, Palace Press Officer Undersecretary Atty. Claire Castro emphasized that any future agreement will strictly uphold Philippine sovereignty and transparency, particularly within the country’s exclusive economic zone (EEZ).

"Lagi naman, kung ano ang nararapat sa atin at kung anong karapatan natin, 'yan naman ang ipinaglalaban ng Pangulo at ng administrayon na ito," Castro said in an interview with PTV on Monday, March 30.

She further stressed that there would be no concessions that would undermine Philippine interests and that transparency will be maintained throughout any negotiations.

Undersecretary Castro reiterated that President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. remains firm in protecting the nation's rights and that no "secret deals" or concessions will be made.

"Walang mawawala. Walang mawawalang interes, walang ipamimigay na interes. Basta tayo laging sincere, walang secret deal," Castro added.

The administration maintains that all future engagements will be guided by national interest and respect for Philippine sovereignty.

However, Castro clarified that there are no ongoing negotiations or concrete developments regarding joint exploration.

Although the President has signaled openness to potential collaboration, the Palace clarified that there are currently no active negotiations or concrete updates on the matter.

"Kung merong plano man, kung magkakaroon man ng joint exploration, alam naman natin na ang Pilipinas, sa pamumuno ni Pangulong Marcos Jr. ay open ," she said.

Marcos earlier signaled openness to potential joint energy development with China, even as maritime disputes persist between the two countries.

“I think it’s certainly going to happen… there’s going to be a very, very serious restructuring,” the President said in an interview with Bloomberg.

-Paraluman News