ExxonMobil Inks Deepwater Deal

According to reports, ExxonMobil's subsidiary, Esso Exploration International Limited, and Mitra Energy Limited (MEL) have entered into an agreement to explore for hydrocarbons in the deepwater Sandakan Basin southwest of the Philippine Islands. Under terms of the recently signed farm-in agreement, an ExxonMobil affiliate has acquired a 50 percent operating interest in Block SC 56. MEL retains a 50 percent equity interest in the block and will operate the 2D seismic acquisition phase of the exploration program. The oil exploration agreement covers approximately two million acres and is subject to approval by the Philippines Department of Energy. Source: Rigzone