National Security Adviser Hermogenes Esperon Jr. on Monday told the Senate committee on science and technology that it would be to the Philippines’ national interest to encourage maritime scientific research (MSRs) in its own territorial waters. Speaking at a Senate joint committee hearing into the maritime scientific studies conducted in the Philippine Rise, formerly known as Benham Rise, Esperon said that the government stands to benefit from MSRs on its own territorial waters, be it done by local or foreign entities.

Torregoza, H. L. (2018, February 27). Esperon: Benham, WPS research to benefit PH. Manila Bulletin, p. 2.