The Chinese Embassy in Manila issued a sharp response to the Stratbase Institute after the think tank declared its opposition to the proposed joint oil and gas exploration between the Philippines and China.
Deputy Spokesperson Guo Wei questioned Stratbase’s position, noting that President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. had earlier signaled openness to revisiting talks on the energy deal.
“But the Stratbase Institute said it ‘firmly rejects’ proposals for joint energy exploration with China,” the embassy said.
Guo Wei followed with pointed questions:
“Who is mandated to make foreign policies in the Philippines? Who benefits from the rejection of joint energy exploration? Who bears the brunt of soaring fuel prices?”
The statement ended with a tongue-in-cheek remark:
“Keep up the good job, Stratbase!”
Stratbase has consistently opposed joint energy exploration, citing concerns over sovereignty and national security.
The exchange highlights the growing tension between Beijing’s push for cooperation and local voices wary of its implications.