Fujian: The Philippines and China have reinitiated discussions concerning potential oil and gas exploration in the South China Sea, marking a significant development nearly four years after previous negotiations ended in 2022. This topic was a focal point during the recently concluded Bilateral Consultative Mechanism (BCM) on South China Sea meeting held in Fujian, China, on March 28. According to Philippines News Agency, the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) released a statement late Saturday, noting that both nations acknowledged progress in various potential areas of cooperation. These include enhancing communication between coast guards and advancing ocean meteorology to boost confidence in maritime operations. During the discussions, both sides engaged in a 'frank and thorough exchange of views' on the current situation in the South China Sea. The Philippines reiterated its stance and expressed concerns over China's activities, which it claims have disrupted lawful operations and increased risks at se a. The DFA emphasized the importance of diplomacy and communication for managing maritime differences, advocating for adherence to international law, particularly the 1982 United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) and the 2016 South China Sea Arbitral Award. The BCM was conducted back-to-back with the 24th Foreign Ministry Consultations (FMC), led by Foreign Affairs Undersecretary Leo Herrera-Lim and Chinese Vice Foreign Minister Sun Weidong. At the FMC, the Philippines underscored its intent to address all bilateral issues in alignment with national interests while fostering mutually beneficial cooperation, especially in economic and people-to-people exchanges. Discussions also covered the need to stabilize energy and fertilizer access, along with exploring cooperation in green and renewable energy, trade, and agriculture against the backdrop of the Middle East crisis. The DFA highlighted that both countries recognized the necessity of reconvening appropriate bilateral mechanisms. Furthermo re, the talks touched on enhancing tourism through visa-free arrangements, improved connectivity, and potential new direct air routes. As this year's chair of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), Manila reiterated its commitment to playing a 'responsible and professional role,' particularly in managing regional discussions, upholding ASEAN centrality, and reinforcing a rules-based order. The DFA announced plans for a bilateral foreign ministers' meeting to be convened within the year, following these latest discussions. The last FMC took place in Manila in March 2023, and the previous BCM meeting was held in Xiamen in January 2025. These engagements align with President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.'s directive to pursue dialogue and diplomacy with China, aligning with the Philippines' national interests while safeguarding the country's sovereignty, sovereign rights, and jurisdiction.
