Malacañang said that the military is supporting the proposed joint exploration with China in the Philippines’ exclusive economic zone (EEZ). Presidential Spokesperson Harry Roque made the statement after Foreign Affairs Secretary Alan Cayetano said President Duterte approved the creation of a working group for the joint oil exploration. Roque said Cayetano briefed the military about the possible joint exploration during the last command conference this week.

Geducos, A. C. B. (2018, August 10). Military backs joint exploration of EEZ with China. Manila Bulletin, p. 4.