The Philippine government approved the applications of 26 research firms from the United States, Japan and South Korea to conduct scientific research in Benham rise or Philippine Rise, contradicting allegations the Duterte administration favors China to explore the disputed sea bed, an extension of the Philippines’ continental shelf, Presidential Spokesperson Harry Roque said. In a statement, Roque also clarified he never said Filipinos could not conduct research in Benham Rise nor had the capability to do so, saying there were fixed guidelines to follow and, so far, China, for the moment qualified.

Barcelo, V. & Bencito J. P. & Ramos-Araneta, M. (2018, January 26). US, Japan, South Korea join bids for Benham Rise study. Manila Standard, pp. A1, A2.