Independent think tank Stratbase Institute has urged the Philippines to deepen cooperation under the Japan-led Asia Zero Emission Community (AZEC), while warning against energy agreements that may expose the country to geopolitical risks and undermine national interests.
It issued the call as it welcomed strengthened Philippines–Japan energy cooperation under AZEC, following the visit of Japanese political figure Kishida Fumio, Special Envoy of Japanese Prime Minister Takaichi Sanae and Supreme Adviser to the Parliamentary Association of AZEC.
AZEC is a Japan-led regional initiative that promotes collaboration among partner countries on clean energy transition, energy security, and decarbonization.
Stratbase Institute President Victor Andres “Dindo” Manhit urged the Marcos administration to fast-track energy projects under AZEC and strengthen cooperation with Tokyo and other like-minded partners, instead of pursuing arrangements that could expose the Philippines to geopolitical pressure.
His statement comes amid ongoing discussions on potential joint energy exploration activities with China in the West Philippine Sea, an area Beijing continues to claim despite a 2016 arbitral ruling invalidating its expansive claims in the South China Sea.
“The Philippines must be unequivocal in its direction and choose arrangements that deliver real, sustainable prosperity. It must build its energy future with partners that respect its sovereignty and support a rules-based order,” Stratbase said.
The institute stressed that any energy arrangement involving implicit or explicit concessions in the West Philippine Sea—or those that disregard ongoing coercive actions—would undermine the country’s sovereign interests.
Manhit said AZEC offers a “credible and forward-looking framework” that simultaneously advances energy security, economic growth, and decarbonization, particularly at a time when global energy systems face pressure from geopolitical tensions, including conflicts in the Middle East.
He also welcomed plans for the Philippines and Japan to co-host the 4th AZEC Leaders Meeting in November, describing it as recognition of Manila’s growing strategic role in the Indo-Pacific.
Stratbase likewise raised concerns over continued Chinese activities in the West Philippine Sea, including reported harassment of Philippine vessels and disregard for the 2016 arbitral ruling, saying these developments highlight the risks of exposure to political and economic leverage.
In contrast, the institute pointed to Japan as a model partner, citing its commitment to transparency, respect for international law, and capacity-building in its cooperation with the Philippines.
Last week, Kishida met with President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. and Energy Secretary Sharon Garin to discuss expanded AZEC cooperation, coinciding with the 70th anniversary of the normalization of diplomatic relations between the Philippines and Japan.