China fully recognized Philippine sovereignty over Benham Rise, according to acting Foreign Affairs Secretary Enrique Manalo. It was the first time the acting foreign minister spoke on the issue and reiterated that Beijing notified Manila that they are not claiming ownership of Benham Rise although they are stressing the right of innocent passage. The United Nations Commission on the Limits of Continental Shelf recognized Benham Rise in 2012 as an extension of Philippine continental shelf, where Filipinos have exclusive rights to fish and exploit potential resources like undersea gas and oil.

DFA: Sinos not staking claim on Benham. (2017, March 17). Manila Standard, pp. A1, A2.