After the Department of National Defense reported that foreign vessels were spotted circling within the Benham Rise, stakeholders urged the government to expedite the adoption of a management framework to protect and manage the area said to be rich in natural resources.Non-government organization Oceana Philippines said the government must protect Benham Rise since it is an important marine resource that has great potential for discovering unique species. Senate Bill No. 312 authored by senator Sonny Angara, seeks the creation of a Benham Rise Development Authority to be an attached agency of the National Economic Development Authority to lead intensive scientific research and exploration in the area and identify its economic potential to formulate and implement a roadmap for its development.

Macapagal, J. (2017, March 13). Marine protection of Benham Rise urged. Malaya Business Insight, p. A4.