The Department of Foreign Affairs on Tuesday said the Philippines and China with hold their "preparatory tasks" in Beijing for the possible joint oil and gas exploration in the West Philippine Sea in May. "The meeting will discuss parameters and terms of reference," the DFA said in a statement. Last week, Foreign Affairs Secretary Enrique Manalo confirmed that the Philippines and China will continue the derailed plan to explore mineral resources in the West Philippine Sea, following President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.'s state visit to Beijing earlier this year.

Garner, J. (2023, April 5). Phl-China oil exploration talks set May. Daily Tribune, p. B12.