The Federation of Filipino Chinese Chambers of Commerce and Industry Inc. urged stakeholders to support the proposed resumption of joint oil and gas exploration talks between the Philippines and China to bolster energy security.
FFCCCII president Victor Lim welcomed the pronouncement of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. on restarting discussions for potential joint exploration in the West Philippine Sea.
Lim said the move is timely given current geopolitical tensions and volatile global energy markets which underscore the importance of practical cooperation for a sustainable energy future.
The business group said the administration’s strategy of separating territorial disputes from economic engagement serves as a pragmatic way to advance national interests.
FFCCCII said that pursuing common ground would benefit the Filipino people and contribute to regional stability while supporting long term economic partnerships.
“We firmly believe that practical cooperation in energy security offers a viable pathway to securing a stable, affordable, and sustainable energy future,” Lim said.
The Philippines seeks to diversify its energy sources and reduce its reliance on imported fuels. While previous negotiations faced constitutional and sovereignty hurdles, the federation maintains that economic collaboration remains a vital component of the country’s growth strategy.
Philippines, China, joint exploration, FFCCCII, West Philippine Sea, energy, Victor Lim, oil, gas
 expresses support for President Marcos Jr.'s plan to restart joint oil and gas exploration talks with China.){kind=link}