The Naval Forces Northern Luzon (NFNL) upholds the Philippine sovereignty over the Benham Rise also known as Philippine Rise by deploying BRP Jose Rizal (FF150) to the country’s water feature on Tuesday.
The Philippine Navy said the deployment was part of the commemoration of the 7th year of renaming the territory from Benham Rise to Philippine Rise by former President Rodrigo Duterte in 2017.
NFNL commander Commodore Edward Ike De Sagon, in a send-off rite at Poro Point, La Union said the activity aims to sustain marine conservation and protection of the Philippine Rise, reaffirming sovereign rights and raising awareness of its strategic value.
He underscored the importance of marine conservation efforts in safeguarding the diverse marine life and ecosystems of the Philippine Rise for present and future generations.
“This event also commemorates the renaming of Benham Rise to Philippine Rise, signifying a pivotal historical moment and illustrating the government’s commitment to upholding territorial claims and conserving the natural heritage.” NFNL spokesman Lt. Zachary Sinsuan said.
