If someone claims the Philippine (Benham) Rise, the government will declare war against the claimant, a Cabinet official said on Wednesday. Research in such areas will be done by “our scientists, from the University of the Philippines’ Maritime Science Institute… and other institutions or other science agencies,” he said. Overall, however, marine scientific research in the Philippine Rise should be a “whole of the world” initiative since it would benefit the global population, Esperon added. The Philippine Rise or Benham Rise is a protected food supply exclusive zone located east of Dinapigue town in Isabela province on the country’s Luzon island. He added that the diplomatic engagements would cover marine protected areas, marine peace parks and regional fishery management organizations, among others.

Source: Manila Times March 07, 2018 16:30 UTC