Marcos: Talks with China on joint energy exploration possibleMANILA, Philippines — Will a war in the Middle East pave the way for a deal between the parties in a bitter maritime dispute? The Philippines and China are embroiled in a longstanding row over South China Sea areas that are within Manila’s exclusive economic zone (EEZ) and continental shelf. Despite the dispute, Marcos and Chinese President Xi Jinping agreed to resume discussions on oil and gas exploration in the South China Sea during a bilateral summit in 2023. Marcos said he sees a “realignment” taking place “at first in the Middle East” and its effect would be on trade relations. Theresa Lazaro said that while there is no directive yet from the President to restart the energy supply talks with China, it may be forthcoming.

Source: Philippine Star March 25, 2026 16:10 UTC