Stratbase Institute has strongly opposed any joint energy exploration agreement between the Philippines and China in the West Philippine Sea, arguing that such a deal would put Philippine sovereignty and long-term national interests at risk. The think tank said China has repeatedly shown that it is neither a trustworthy partner nor a responsible actor, citing incidents in which Chinese actions allegedly damaged Philippine assets and endangered Filipino personnel and civilians.
According to Stratbase, any discussion on joint exploration must be based firmly on international law, especially the 2016 Arbitral Award, which affirmed the Philippines’ exclusive sovereign rights over natural resources within its exclusive economic zone in the West Philippine Sea. It stressed that these rights are non-negotiable and that all resources in these waters must remain under full Philippine ownership, control, and supervision.
The group also noted that China’s refusal to recognize the arbitral ruling raises serious doubts about its willingness to respect any future agreement. Stratbase warned that entering such a partnership could create ambiguity, weaken the Philippines’ legal position, and expose the country to unnecessary risks. Instead, it urged the government to strengthen its maritime jurisdiction, fully implement Executive Order No. 111, and pursue energy development with reliable partners and capable Filipino private sector actors.
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