The Philippines does not have a policy allowing China to conduct research in Benham Rise, but President Duterte may enter into binding agreements with China to explore the gas-rich underwater plateau, the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) said. Acting Foreign Affairs Secretary Enrique Manalo said he is not aware if China was given permission to conduct research in Benham Rise, an underwater area off the provinces of Aurora and Isabela believed to have gas deposits. But Foreign Affairs spokesman Charles Jose said yesterday President Duterte may enter into binding agreements with other countries such as China to explore Benham Rise.

Lee-Brago, P., Romero, P., Flores, H., Laude, J., Mendez, C., & Macairan, E. (2017, March 18). DFA: Phl may ink deal with China in Benham. The Philippine Star, p. 7.