Philippine lawmakers advocating for oil and gas cooperation with China in the South China Sea have triggered warnings from analysts who fear such deals could undermine Manila’s sovereignty claims. The proposal, framed as an economic opportunity, comes amid ongoing tensions over Beijing’s expansive maritime claims in the resource-rich waters.
At least three legislators recently suggested reviving joint energy exploration talks with China, citing potential economic benefits. However, regional security analysts note these discussions would occur in contested waters where an international tribunal ruled against China’s claims in 2016. ‘Any bilateral agreement that doesn’t explicitly recognize the arbitral ruling sets a dangerous precedent,’ said a Manila-based geopolitical analyst speaking anonymously due to the sensitivity of the issue.
The Philippine Department of Foreign Affairs maintains its commitment to the 2016 Hague ruling, which China continues to reject. Energy officials estimate the Reed Bank area alone holds up to 5.4 billion barrels of oil and 55.1 trillion cubic feet of natural gas – resources currently undeveloped due to the territorial dispute.
Observers warn the timing raises concerns, following recent Chinese coast guard confrontations with Philippine resupply missions to Second Thomas Shoal. ‘Economic cooperation can’t come at the cost of territorial integrity,’ a Southeast Asia diplomatic source told Reuters. The debate highlights Manila’s balancing act between economic pragmatism and national sovereignty as China pushes its ‘joint development’ framework across the contested waterway.