LOS BAÑOS, Laguna — During an expedition in May last year, marine scientists explored Benham Bank, which, at 50 meters, is the shallowest part of Benham Rise. Thriving coralsIn May 2014, a team of marine experts, with a P24-million DOST funding, launched the first scientific exploration into the Benham Rise. But the physical inconvenience was nothing compared to what they saw on the Benham Bank. They cannot do anything else other than that.”The recent incursion of Chinese vessels in Benham Rise may warrant culpable violations by China, Batongbacal said. In fact, the Philippines’ claim over the Benham Rise has raised the country’s stake in territorial disputes.

Source: Philippine Daily Inquirer March 18, 2017 16:30 UTC