China ship in PHL ahead of research sked in Benham Rise —Alejano

The Chinese vessel that will conduct marine scientific research in the Benham Rise arrived in Philippine waters two days ahead of its approved schedule, a lawmaker has said.

Magdalo party-list Representative Gary Alejano, a former member of the Philppine Marines, said the research vessel Ke Xua Hao has entered the  country and was located northeast of Palanan, Isabela as of January 23.

"China’s research vessel entered Philippine territory on January 22, two days early from the granted duration of the MSR which starts on January 24 and ends on February 25,” said Alejano, citing sources.

Alejano said it was important to monitor the Chinese research group's activities.

“What we should make sure now is the compliance of China to all the requirements demanded by the Philippine government as conditions to the permit issued," Alejano said.

"In particular, we should be wary on the sharing of information that will be culled from the said expedition. Filipino scientists on board should be given equal access to all results of the research activity,” he added.

Alejano criticized Malacanang's statement that Filipinos could not afford to conduct the research alone.

"There have already been expeditions in the area conducted by Filipinos to support our claim in Benham Rise before it was awarded to us in 2012," Alejano said.

"What they need now in order to explore Benham further is more support from the government instead of demeaning remarks,” he added. 

Alejano pointed out the non-allocation of funding for a research facility in Benham Rise—a proposal of the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources in the budget deliberations in 2017.

“This administration has shown no interest and support on strengthening our presence in Benham. Thus, it has no ascendancy to say that Filipinos cannot conduct research in the area given its lack of support,” Alejano said. —NB, GMA News