President Rodrigo Duterte on Thursday ordered the military to fortify the country’s controlled islands in the South China Sea in a bid to strengthen Philippine claims over the disputed territories. Duterte said he was willing for the government to spend for fortifications in the islands, including the repair of an airstrip in Palawan. Duterte also reiterated his plan to change the name of Benham Rise, another territory claimed by the country in the Pacific Ocean, to “Philippine Ridge.”

Bencito, J.P. (2017, April 7). DU30 asserts sea claims: orders troops to take control of islets, reefs. Manila Standard, pp. A1, A2.