Progressive lawmakers from the Makabayan bloc have urged the House of Representatives to investigate the Department of Foreign Affairs’ (DFA) approval of China’s maritime study in Philippine Rise (Benham Rise). 1623, which calls on the House committee on foreign affairs to look into the so-called “marine research and study” conducted by China and approved by the DFA starting January 24. Groups contend that China only gave us uselessly blurred pictures of the area,” the lawmakers said in the resolution. “Contrary to the claims of the current administration, the Philippines does not have to rely on China to study the Philippine Rise,” the lawmakers pointed out. “However, any joint exploration with China must protect the interest of the Filipino people and should contribute to the country’s economic development.

Source: Philippine Daily Inquirer January 30, 2018 05:26 UTC