The Department of Foreign Affairs on Friday said the Philippines is open to gas explorations with other countries, including China.
Foreign Affairs Secretary Enrique Manalo, however, said that before entering into negotiations, the “terms of reference” should be discussed first with interested countries.
Manalo said they “had ongoing talks with China” and they are now “looking at possible terms of reference for the talks.”
Former President Rodrigo Duterte earlier ended negotiations with China over a possible partnership for oil and gas exploration in the West Philippine Sea.
But in his second State of the Nation Address, President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. said that his administration would push for more gas exploration in other parts of the country aside from Malampaya.
The President said his administration will aggressively promote renewable energy to meet the target of attaining a 35 percent share in the power mix by 2030 and then on to 50 percent by 2040.
“Renewable energy is the way forward,” Mr. Marcos said.
“The Malampaya project has been a boon to our country, energizing 20 percent of Luzon. The renewal of the contract guarantees continued revenues and energy production for another 15 years. But aside from Malampaya, we will also push for more gas exploration in other parts of the country,” the President added.
Manalo also said he was not aware of proposals on possible joint military exercises with China.
Armed Forces of the Philippines chief Gen. Romeo Brawner Jr. earlier disclosed to the media that China floated the idea of joint military exercises.
“Well, I think what he said was possible so I don’t know yet. Anyway, we have to see first what they’re proposing before we can even make a recommendation,” the DFA secretary said.