Philippines identifies sites in South China Sea for potential joint exploration with China
One is in contested territory within the resource-rich waters
The Philippines on Friday identified two areas in the South China Sea where joint exploration for oil and gas may be undertaken with China, including one in territory that both sides have argued over for years.
The two countries have agreed to set up a special panel to work out how they can jointly explore in part of the hotly contested waters without having to address the issue of sovereignty, something experts say would be extremely complex.
Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte’s spokesman, Harry Roque, said the areas being considered were sites covered by service contracts 57 and 72, which are exploration permits issued by Manila’s energy ministry.
“What I know is that there are two areas being considered for joint exploration, but both are within the exclusive economic zone” of the Philippines, Roque told reporters.
China claims almost the entire South China Sea, believed to rich in energy reserves and marine resources. Brunei, Malaysia, Vietnam and Taiwan also have claims.