‘Initial discussions’ between PH and China over potential oil collaboration.

The Philippines is set to hold talks with China to discuss the general terms of reference for potential joint energy exploration in the West Philippine Sea, according to Department of Foreign Affairs Secretary Enrique Manalo. Prior to this, former President Rodrigo Duterte had ended negotiations with China over possible partnership for oil and gas exploration in the disputed waters. The Code of Conduct for the West Philippine Sea, which remains a work in progress, is also being negotiated. The Department of Energy previously announced that Manila and Beijing had agreed to resume talks about cooperating on oil exploration.