Senator Sherwin Gatchalian hopes that the joint exploration talks between the Philippines and China on the West Philippine Seas (WPS) will be successful under the administration of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.
Gatchalian said Sunday as in any talks with other countries, the minimum requirement is that the Philippine Constitution must be followed such as the 60/40 sharing of any products as provided for in the country’s law.
However, Gatchalian noted that China is insisting on its policy and that issue alone is a hindrance if the talks will push through.
He is hoping that an agreement could be reached under the new administration.
“Maganda ang intension pero ang batas natin ang dapat na masunod, nasa loob ng Exclusive Economic Zone [EEZ], 60 percent dapat mapunta sa atin (The intention is good but our law must be followed since it is within in our EEZ, 60 percent must be given to us)”, Gatchalian said in a radio interview.
On the possibility of a talk with other countries, Gatchalian said it is very possible, as long as they adhere to the Philippine law, citing the Malampaya gas exploration which is in partnership with the United States. (PNA)
Photo credit: Facebook/senateph