Senator Sherwin Gatchalian on Wednesday maintained that the Philippines must remain steadfast in protecting its territorial integrity and sovereign rights should the government decide to reopen discussions with China regarding joint oil exploration.

Amidst rising global oil prices fueled by escalating tensions in the Middle East, the senator noted that exploring indigenous energy sources has become increasingly vital.

However, he emphasized that any agreement must not come at the expense of the country's constitutionally mandated rights over its waters.

Sovereignty Over Commercial Interests

Gatchalian suggested that while diplomatic and commercial arrangements could provide a path forward, the legal foundation of the Philippines' claims must remain untouched.

"Hindi natin pwede isa-alang-alang yung sovereignty and sovereign rights natin sa pag-uusap," Gatchalian stated.

"Pero pwedeng mag-explore. Tawag nila commercial terms kung paano tayo mag-move forward using commercial arrangements," he added.

The senator acknowledged that while a "trust issue" exists regarding China, the potential for mutual benefit is a driving factor for these discussions. China possesses the advanced technology required for deep-sea extraction, while the Philippines urgently needs to secure its energy future.

Despite the technical advantages of a partnership, Gatchalian warned that the Philippine government must be firm in its messaging to ensure that cooperation is not misinterpreted as a waiver of rights.

"Dapat maging firm din tayo na kung matutuloy man ito, hindi ibig sabihin na sinusurrender natin ang ating sovereignty at sovereign rights."

The call for renewed talks comes as the Philippines seeks to diversify its energy mix and reduce its heavy reliance on imported fuel, which leaves the local economy vulnerable to international market shocks.