Manila, Beijing resume talks on South China Sea, energy security

The Philippines and China have resumed high-level talks this week over the disputed South China Sea, exploring preliminary steps towards oil and gas cooperation while addressing energy and fertiliser supply issues amid the ongoing Middle East conflict, the Philippine foreign ministry said.



The 11th round of talks under a bilateral consultation mechanism established in 2017 was the first such meeting since January 2025.



Manila "firmly reiterated its principled positions," raising concerns about incidents threatening Filipino personnel and fishermen, and underscoring the importance of diplomacy, communication, and adherence to international law, the ministry said, in a statement on March 28.



Both sides discussed initial exchanges on oil and gas cooperation and emphasised stable energy and fertiliser access.



The talks come after President Ferdinand Marcos Jr declared a state of national energy emergency earlier this week, citing oil supply disruptions due to the Middle East conflict and announcing efforts to diversify fuel imports, including sourcing from China.



The talks also addressed renewable energy, agriculture, trade, and potential people-to-people initiatives, such as visa-free travel and direct air routes, the ministry said.