The country will purchase maritime research vessels so it can better assess the resources which can be explored in the undisputed Philippine Rise. Presidential spokesman Harry Roque said this was the consensus reached by President Duterte and members of the cabinet who were present during the meeting in Malacañang on Monday after Agriculture Secretary Emmanuel Pinol noted they have been holding research in the area for decades. Roque said there was an initial proposal to use Malampaya Funds for the purchase of the maritime survey ships 'but it was noted there may be legal questions because the Malampaya funds could only be utilized for energy-related projects."

Africa, R. (2018, March 7). Gov't to purchase research vessels for use in PH rise. Malaya Business Insight, p. B2.