The Philippines remains open to possible joint oil and gas exploration initiatives with China in the West Philippine Sea, but officials clarified that no discussions are currently underway.
Communications Undersecretary and Palace Press Officer Claire Castro emphasized that any future plans will prioritize national interests under the leadership of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr..
“Kung meron mang plano, kung magkakaroon ng joint exploration, alam naman natin ang Pilipinas sa pamumuno ni Pangulong Marcos Jr. ay open sabi nga niya, nothing is off the table,” Castro said.
She stressed that the government will maintain transparency and caution in any potential negotiations to fully safeguard sovereignty and public welfare.
“Isa lamang ang titiyakin ng gobyerno, at ito ay laging magiging tapat sa mga pag-uusap kung meron man at magiging maingat para sa interes ng bayan at para sa interes ng bawat Pilipino,” Castro added.
Castro reiterated that no negotiations are ongoing, highlighting that any future agreements will avoid secret deals or compromises that could undermine the country’s interests.