President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. says he remains optimistic about economic cooperation between the Philippines and China despite ongoing disputes, including tensions tied to the South China Sea. Speaking at an event with foreign journalists in Manila on Friday, he points to past areas of collaboration and says both sides can work together on economic matters.
Marcos cites examples of prior cooperation, including energy-related coordination. He also refers to how the two countries supported or cooperated on energy supplies during periods of regional disruption, including when conflict broke out in the Middle East earlier this year. The reports present his remarks as confidence-building, even as relations remain strained over maritime issues.
Across the outlets, the emphasis is on Marcos’ stated position that cooperation can continue alongside disagreements. While none of the articles detail new agreements or specific proposals, they consistently describe his argument that practical economic links have existed before and could persist despite “rows” with Beijing.
