Malacañang Palace on Thursday dismissed claims of “secret deals” involving President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., stressing that the Philippines has remained transparent in negotiations, particularly on joint oil and gas exploration with China.
Communications Undersecretary and Palace Press Officer Claire Castro reaffirmed the administration’s position, emphasizing that no undisclosed agreements exist.
“Unang-una po, hindi po kailanman naging hindi sincere ang bansang Pilipinas. Sa lahat ng pagkakataon, sa lahat ng okasyon, ang Pilipinas ay laging sincere sa pakikipag-usap, pakikipagnegosasyon lalung-lalo na sa pamumuno po ni Pangulong Marcos Jr. Wala po siyang secret deal.”
Her remarks followed the Chinese Embassy in Manila expressing willingness to resume discussions on energy cooperation in the South China Sea, provided the Philippines demonstrates sincerity.
The embassy noted that both sides previously held “in-depth discussions” on joint oil and gas development in disputed waters, achieving “positive progress.”
“Setting aside differences and pursuing joint development is the right path to uphold peace and stability in the South China Sea and deliver benefits to countries in the region and their peoples,” the embassy said.
“As long as the Philippine side demonstrates sincerity, China’s door to dialogue and cooperation will remain open.”
The exchange highlights Manila’s insistence on transparency while addressing Beijing’s call for trust, as both nations explore potential energy cooperation in contested areas.