Marcos: PH sovereignty key in joint resource exploration talks

President Ferdinand "Bongbong" Marcos Jr. stated that Philippine sovereignty will be the primary principle in any discussions regarding joint resource exploration, particularly with China.

Marcos emphasized that the Philippines cannot compromise its territorial integrity and sovereign rights in any talks about joint exploration.

This statement comes in response to questions about reviving joint oil exploration with China following the discovery of a significant oil field in the South China Sea by China National Offshore Oil Corporation.

He affirmed that the guiding principle for any such discussions is to uphold the nation's territorial integrity.

China's embassy in Manila has previously indicated that Beijing's stance on joint oil and gas development with the Philippines remains consistent.

The Philippines and China had previously signed a Memorandum of Understanding in November 2018 to create a joint steering committee for potential energy cooperation.