Philippines Partners with US and Allies for China Sea Energy Exploration

Manila seeks to leverage security ties for economic benefits amid heightened tensions with China.

The Philippines is leveraging its security ties with the US and allies like Japan and Australia to explore energy resources in the disputed South China Sea.
Manila aims to use these partnerships to attract investment and lower power costs, amid tensions with China over territorial claims.
The Philippines, which imports almost all its fuel needs, sees the exploration as crucial for economic security and reducing high regional power costs.
Negotiations with China for joint exploration have stalled, leading to a more assertive stance from Manila with support from its allies.
The initiative is part of a broader economic strategy to attract investors, with plans likely to proceed within President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.'s term ending in 2028.