Metro Manila, Philippines – The Department of Energy on Friday, April 10, said it welcomes potential joint oil and gas exploration with China, and at the same time pursuing partnerships with other countries for energy security.
Energy Secretary Sharon Garin said any cooperation with China on exploration would be considered, particularly in areas where geographic realities may require coordination, but emphasized that no concrete agreements have been reached.
“Now, the joint exploration with China and the Philippines… that’s welcome naman but currently wala pa pong concrete contract kung ano po,” she said in Palace briefing.
[Translation: Joint exploration between China and the Philippines is welcome, but there is currently no concrete contract yet.]
Garin said recent engagements with Chinese officials were focused on ensuring fuel supply deliveries.
“Our discussions with the Chinese embassy was to discuss the orders of our oil companies… but we didn’t talk about the exploration,”
