Philippines insists energy deals with China must respect national sovereignty

Sunday 12 April 2026 - 13:15

The Philippines has stated that any future cooperation with China on oil and gas exploration must fully comply with its constitution and respect national sovereignty, amid ongoing tensions in the South China Sea.

The Department of Foreign Affairs emphasized that any agreement involving energy cooperation with foreign governments would be carefully evaluated under Philippine law and national legal frameworks. Officials reiterated that sovereignty remains a key principle in all international negotiations.

The statement comes as Manila and Beijing have recently resumed preliminary discussions on possible collaboration in oil and gas development in disputed maritime areas. These talks also include broader concerns over energy supply stability, particularly in light of global geopolitical tensions affecting fuel markets.

The South China Sea remains a longstanding point of dispute between the two countries, with overlapping territorial claims creating friction over access to natural resources.

Chinese officials have not yet publicly responded to the latest remarks from Manila.

Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has repeatedly highlighted the importance of strengthening national energy security and ensuring stable and affordable energy supplies for the country’s growing economy.

Authorities in Manila stress that while cooperation with foreign partners remains possible, it must always align with constitutional limits and protect the country’s sovereign rights over its territory and resources.