The Philippines is willing to discuss collaborative oil and gas exploration with other nations, Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) Secretary Enrique Manalo said on Friday, July 28.
Manalo made the comment after President Ferdinand "Bongbong" Marcos Jr. indicated last Monday in his State of the Nation Address that he would push for greater gas exploration in other parts of the country.
"And we're open, of course, to other countries," Manalo noted during a conversation with the Department of Foreign Affairs Press Corps.
"So far, I'm not aware of any. Maybe the Department of Energy," he added.
When questioned about the timing of the negotiations with other nations, Manalo responded, "If a country ever approaches us, we will look into it."
According to Manalo, talks have been ongoing with China, but they were looking at possible terms of reference for the talks.
During the President’s State of the Nation Address (SONA), he said the Malampaya project had "been a boon to our country, energizing 20% of Luzon."
According to Marcos, the renewal of the contract guarantees continued revenues and energy production for another 15 years.
"But aside from Malampaya, we will also push for more gas exploration in other parts of the country," he noted.
