Talks between the Philippines and China on possible joint oil exploration may be revived amid concerns over a potential oil crisis, according to the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA).
DFA Secretary Ma. Theresa Lazaro said there are currently no formal negotiations underway regarding the possible joint oil exploration between the two countries.
Lazaro made the statement following a suggestion from President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. to possibly revive the agreement with Beijing, particularly amid threats of an oil crisis linked to tensions in the Middle East.
Speaking during the Kapihan sa Manila Hotel forum, Lazaro clarified that “for now,” there has been no restart of negotiations, but discussions may take place in the future.
She noted that the idea of joint exploration is not new, as it has been discussed several times in the past.
However, she said disagreements previously arose over several key details, including possible constitutional issues tied to the proposed arrangement.
Meanwhile, when asked about the Philippines’ apparent neutrality in the Middle East conflict, Lazaro explained that neutrality does not mean the country is taking no side.
She said the government is exercising caution to protect the welfare of an estimated 2.4 million overseas Filipino workers in the region.
Lazaro added that repatriation of affected OFWs remains a continuing challenge for government agencies.
These include around 800 Filipinos married to Iranian nationals, as well as tourists participating in religious pilgrimages.
Some Filipinos, she noted, have chosen to remain in the region despite rising tensions involving the United States, Israel, and Iran.
