Benham Rise, Philippine Sea – There might be great oil reserves here at Benham Rise, but Agriculture Secretary Emmanuel ‘Manny’ Piñol is after the tuna. During the government expedition in this rich fishing ground, the Department of Agriculture (DA) secretary underscored the pressing need to preserve the area as a dependable food source for Filipinos – never mind the fuel. “I will recommend to the President that Benham Rise be declared as a special food production area, protected from mineral and oil exploration. It should remain as a food production area,” he said.

Quismorio, E. (2017, May 8). Fish galore at Benham Rise. Manila Bulletin, p . 2.