MANILA — Stratbase Institute, a Philippine policy think-tank, has expressed opposition to any joint energy exploration deal between the Philippines and China in the West Philippine Sea (WPS).

In a Facebook post Sunday, the group said China “has repeatedly demonstrated that it is neither a reliable partner nor a responsible actor,” citing incidents that have “damaged Philippine assets and endangered the lives of Filipino uniformed personnel and civilians” in its efforts to assert control over disputed areas.

Stratbase stressed that any discussions on energy exploration must adhere to international law, particularly the 2016 Arbitral Award, which affirms the Philippines’ exclusive rights to natural resources within its exclusive economic zone in the WPS.

“These rights are non-negotiable. All resources must remain under full Philippine ownership, control, and supervision. Any arrangement that creates ambiguity or undermines these rights is unacceptable,” the group said.

The think-tank also noted China’s refusal to recognize the arbitral ruling as a sign of its lack of credibility, warning that partnerships with actors who consistently violate Philippine sovereign rights would expose the country to unnecessary risks.

Stratbase called for the Philippines to pursue decisive measures, including full implementation of Executive Order No. 111, and to develop energy resources through partnerships with “like-minded states and credible Filipino private sector actors” with proven capacity and expertise.

The group emphasized that energy security should not come at the expense of sovereignty and that crises should not be used to justify compromising the country’s legal position or the welfare of Filipino fisherfolk and frontliners.