Malacañang has assured the public that the Philippines will safeguard its interests if a joint oil and gas exploration with China pushes through in the West Philippine Sea.
Presidential Communications Office Undersecretary Claire Castro said the government will not surrender any rights in such an arrangement.
“Kung ano ang nararapat sa atin at kung anong karapatan natin, ‘yan naman ang ipinaglalaban ng Pangulo at ng administrayon na ito,” she said.
“Walang mawawala. Walang mawawalang interes, walang ipamimigay na interes. Basta tayo laging sincere, walang secret deal.”
The Palace issued the assurance after China reported progress in talks on possible joint exploration in the disputed waters. Areas such as Recto Bank are believed to hold significant oil and natural gas reserves.IMT
