Tolentino wants probe on submersible drone found off Masbate

Senator Francis Tolentino filed Senate Resolution No. 1267 to investigate a submersible drone recovered off the coast of Masbate.

The resolution asks the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) to determine if the drone, found within the Philippines' exclusive economic zone, had the necessary permits.

Tolentino believes the drone, recovered by local fisherfolk on December 30, is likely for scientific research due to its yellow color, distinguishing it from typically black military submersibles.

The inquiry will also ascertain whether the foreign entity operating the drone secured proper authorization from the Philippines as the coastal state, in accordance with the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS).

Tolentino highlighted the urgency of determining the drone's origins and its compliance with the Philippine Maritime Zones Act and the Archipelagic Sea Lanes Law, as its presence raises concerns about territorial integrity and national security.

He noted that the Philippine Maritime Zones Act requires that any submersible drone used for marine scientific research within Philippine maritime zones must benefit the Filipino people and requires government authorization.