THE HOUSE of Representatives adopted last Tuesday, Feb. 6, a resolution which urges the Executive branch to allocate funds for scientific research and feasibility studies at Philippine Rise.

House Resolution (HR) 1636, authored by Ilocos Sur Representative Deogracias Victor B. Savellano, calls for the establishment of a trust fund “with seed amount of not less than” P100 million.

The said trust fund will be used “for additional scientific research, feasibility studies, marine exploration of the region, and acquisition of new equipment to improve the government’s research capabilities and further enhance the development strategies of the country,” the resolution said.

The resolution puts the trust fund under the management of National Coast Watch Council (NCWC).

The resolution noted in part that “scientific surveys and marine explorations showed that the Philippine Rise is rich in marine resources and massive mineral and gas deposits which can help the country energy sufficiency.”

Previously called Benham Rise, it was renamed under Executive Order No. 25 series of 2017 by President Rodrigo R. Duterte to assert sovereignty.

The House adopted the resolution just as Mr. Duterte ordered the cancellation of licenses for scientific research in the area. — MNDLC

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