http://news.abs-cbn.com/news/03/09/1...-defense-chief
MANILA China could be trying to explore Benham Rise, Philippines' defense chief said, in what could be another source of conflict between the Asian neighbors.
Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana said Thursday satellite photos and incident reports revealed that Chinese ships were plying Benham Rise.
Lorenzana said the reason for the Chinese survey in Benham Rise has yet to be determined, but a report reached him that the Chinese could be looking for a spot to place submarines.
Lorenzana said a Chinese ship also figured in an accident in Benham Rise, prompting the survey team to send one of its men to a hospital in Surigao.
So we know they are there, Lorenzana said.
The country's claim to natural gas-rich Benham Rise, a 13-million hectare area located east of Luzon island, was approved by the United Nations in 2012.
MANILA China could be trying to explore Benham Rise, Philippines' defense chief said, in what could be another source of conflict between the Asian neighbors.
Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana said Thursday satellite photos and incident reports revealed that Chinese ships were plying Benham Rise.
Lorenzana said the reason for the Chinese survey in Benham Rise has yet to be determined, but a report reached him that the Chinese could be looking for a spot to place submarines.
Lorenzana said a Chinese ship also figured in an accident in Benham Rise, prompting the survey team to send one of its men to a hospital in Surigao.
So we know they are there, Lorenzana said.
The country's claim to natural gas-rich Benham Rise, a 13-million hectare area located east of Luzon island, was approved by the United Nations in 2012.