Bam Aquino: Let’s tap our best scientists for PH Rise

SCIENTIFIC RESEARCH A diver explores the seabed of Benham Rise believed to be rich in marine resources and underwater minerals. —INQUIRER PHOTO

The government should tap the country’s best scientists to conduct research and exploration in the Philippine Rise (Benham Rise), instead of allowing China to do it, Senator Bam Aquino said on Thursday.

“Huwag nating maliitin ang kakayahan ng mga Pinoy scientist na magsagawa ng pananaliksik sa Benham Rise. Hindi natin kailangan ang China para gawin ito,” Aquino, chairman of the Senate committee on science and technology, said in a statement.

Aquino said that in different interviews, some Filipino scientists claimed that they have already conducted research and exploration initiatives in Benham Rise, contrary to Malacañang’s statement that only China can do it.

“Kung hindi nagkakamali, ginagawa na iyan for the past so many years. Kaya malaking pagkakamali na sabihing sa China lang tayo puwedeng sumandal para sa isyung ito,” the senator said.

Instead of tapping China, Aquino proposed that it is best for the government to support initiatives of Filipino scientists to explore Benham Rise.

“It is part of our territory, so it is best if we will be ones who will explore it,” he said.

The senator also called on the government to be transparent in its dealings with China regarding the exploration of Philippine Rise, and assure that “no secret deals” are being made with China.”