Engr. Leo L. Jasareno, Director of the Mines and Geosciences Bureau, was appointed as Chair of the Technical Working Group (TWG) on the Benham Rise Deep Sea Resources Research Program. The designation was made by Sec. Ramon J.P. Paje of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR).

The TWG on the Benham Rise Deep Sea Resources Research Program was created by the Executive Committee of the National Coast Watch Council (NCWC). As a member, the DENR was mandated to designate an official to Chair the said TWG.

It may be recalled that the Office of the President issued Executive Order No. 57 on September 6, 2011 creating the National Coast Watch System (NCWS), the central inter-agency mechanism which will enhance governance in the country's maritime domain.

As the central inter-agency body, the NCWC is charged to formulate strategic direction and policy guidelines for the NCWS.

By: Legal Service Division