iskup2015 posted: " Portion of Ph Rise now protected area By Nidz Godino Philippine Rise "We were enlightened that it would be best that we would make it marine reserve in order for us to take advantage of natural resources therein," Rep. Ruffy Biazon said up"
"We were enlightened that it would be best that we would make it marine reserve in order for us to take advantage of natural resources therein," Rep. Ruffy Biazon said upon the query of Deputy Speaker Lito Atienza, House panel approved to declare portion of Philippine Rise protected area despite strong objections from a House leader over concerns that measure may limit the country's territorial claim over sea feature.
The House natural resources committee passed a substitute bill declaring portion of the Philippine Rise within country's exclusive economic zone in Philippine Sea as a marine resource reserve.
Biazon explained experts recommended that portion of Philippine Rise be classified as a marine reserve instead of natural park, which was what he originally proposed.
Atienza, however, raised concerns that the measure may be limiting the country's claim to the Philippine Rise.
"This is not the time to limit ourselves to a small area," he said "if we create law that limits our interests, it's like we are weakening Philippines' position in the future."
Atienza attempted to delay approval of the measure, arguing that it should be discussed further, but House natural resources committee chair Rep. Elpidio Barzaga (Cavite) said there have been enough discussions on the measure during the technical working group meetings.
Atienza was not deterred by this and continued to pursue his line of questioning, which Barzaga tried to interrupt, resulting in both lawmakers talking over each other.
Atienza branded committee hearing "Barzaga bandwagon" and accused the Cavite lawmaker of having "dictatorial tendencies" and "railroading" passage of the bill.
Barzaga insisted that he was just following the will of the majority, even though most of the lawmakers present at the hearing were silent as the two senior lawmakers sparred.
Barzaga briefly suspended hearing in the middle of his heated argument with Atienza and returned to resume hearing after around five minutes with blood pressure monitor attached to his arm.
WordPress.com
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