Philippines open to gas exploration talks with other countries, says Manalo

The Philippines is open to having talks with other countries regarding joint oil and gas exploration, Foreign Affairs Secretary Enrique Manalo said on Friday.

Manalo made the remark days after President Ferdinand "Bongbong" Marcos Jr. in his State of the Nation Address last Monday said he would push for more gas exploration in other parts of the country.

"And we're open of course to other countries," Manalo said in an interview with the Department of Foreign Affairs Press Corps.

"So far I'm not aware of any. Maybe, the Department of Energy," he added.

Asked when the talks with other countries might start, Manalo said, "If a country ever approaches up, we will look into it."

Manalo said talks have been ongoing with China "but now we're looking at possible terms of reference for the talks."

Marcos in his SONA said the Malampaya project had "been a boon to our country, energizing 20% of Luzon."

"The renewal of the contract guarantees continued revenues and energy production for another 15 years," Marcos said.

"But aside from Malampaya, we will also push for more gas exploration in other parts of the country," he added. —NB/KG, GMA Integrated News