The Senate Committee on Economic Affairs has scheduled to hold its second hearing on the Benham Rise on March 29. Sen. Sherwin Gatchalian, chair of the committee, said the continuation of the March 7 hearing will discuss defense and national security concerns, as well as issues on biodiversity conservation and energy resources. Earlier, Chinese vessels were reportedly plying Benham Rise to conduct “marine research” in the area. Last year, survey ships were also monitored sailing in the region for three months.

Golez, P. (2017, March 27). Second Senate hearing on Benham Rise set March 29. Panay News. pp. 7, 14.