Manila: The Senate is considering reviving joint oil exploration between the Philippines and China in the West Philippine Sea under the administration of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr., as the government looks for ways to secure alternative energy sources. Senate President Vicente Sotto III said the proposal had been raised during the early years of former president Rodrigo Duterte but did not move forward.
According to Philippines News Agency, the renewed push comes as the government explores options to address possible fuel supply constraints linked to global developments. Asked if he is optimistic the proposal could be pursued under the current administration, Sotto expressed hope and mentioned that discussions may be revisited. He added, "I might ask for a meeting after I discuss it with our group again."
Meanwhile, Sen. Sherwin Gatchalian noted that joint exploration is not a new proposal, citing the formation of a technical working group during the Duterte administration. Gatchalian, who was then chairman of the Energy committee, explained that negotiations between Philippine and Chinese officials were challenging due to differing legal preferences. He emphasized the importance of protecting Philippine sovereignty and sovereign rights in any joint exploration efforts.
Gatchalian acknowledged China's expertise in oil and gas exploration, which could benefit the Philippines. He stressed that any agreement should be governed by Philippine laws to align with the country's exploration model. Earlier, Senate President Pro Tempore Panfilo Lacson supported joint exploration with China, highlighting energy supply concerns and the need to comply with the 60-40 ownership requirement under the 1987 Constitution.
In a related development, Sen. Erwin Tulfo proposed exploring a government-to-government oil supply arrangement with Oman amid the ongoing crisis. During a meeting with Oman Ambassador Abdullah Al Manwari, Tulfo discussed the possibility of boosting the Philippines' oil reserves through proper government channels. The Omani envoy expressed openness to assisting the Philippines, pending confirmation from their corresponding ministry. Tulfo also expressed gratitude to Oman for supporting overseas Filipino workers, particularly during repatriation efforts.
