The government plans to acquire research vessels to explore the disputed South China Sea to assess the potential of Philippine Rise, which is rich in minerals and gas, an official said Tuesday. Presidential Spokesman Harry Roque said President Rodrigo Duterte approved the plan during a Cabinet meeting last Monday after saying the exploration of Philippine Rise would be reserved for Filipinos. “The President reiterated that the only right that foreigners can exercise in Philippine Rise is the right to innocent passage,” Roque said.

Barcelo, V. (2018, March 7). PH to buy new ships for Benham research, pushes oil hunt. Manila Standard, pp. A1, A2.