An opposition congressman hit as “careless and absurd” the government’s decision to allow Chinese scientists to conduct “scientific research” in Philippine waters, including Benham Rise. “Allowing a Chinese national think tank to conduct a so-called scientific research in Philippine waters is careless and absurd,” Magdalo Rep. Gary Alejano said on Friday. But Malacañang said there was nothing wrong with China’s exploration of marine resources in the country because the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) had approved it.

Yap, D., & Salaverria L. B. (2018 January 13). 'Why is DFA letting China do research at Benham Rise?'. Philippine Daily Inquirer, p. A6.