The Philippine government is completely satisfied with China’s response to the note verbale sent by the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) to the Chinese Embassy in Manila seeking clarification on the reported presence and the visit of a Chinese survey ship in Benham Rise last year. Foreign Affairs Secretary Enrique Manalo during the Foreign Correspondents Association of the Philippines (FOCAP) forum held Tuesday, said China actually came out with a very clear response even before the DFA passed the note verbale on at least two or three separate occasions at a very high level. According to Secretary Manalo, China first of all reaffirmed that it recognizes the sovereign rights of the Philippines over Benham Rise and this was clearly stated and mentioned when China said it has no dispute with the Philippines in that area.

Mabasa, R. (2017, April 5). PH satisfied with China’s response to Benham Rise issue. Manila Bulletin, pp. 1, 4.