Batanes Governor Ronald Aguto Jr.and Itbayat Mayor Joseph Cultura have firmly rejected claims by Chinese scholars asserting the province belongs to China, reaffirming its long-standing status under Philippine sovereignty.

In a statement, Aguto emphasized that Batanes has been an integral part of the Republic of the Philippines for over two centuries, citing the 243rd Founding Anniversary celebration as evidence.

Cultura, a retired Philippine Navy captain, dismissed the claims as baseless propaganda stemming from Beijing's expansionist policies, accusing Chinese scholars of using state-funded research to bolster territorial assertions.

The dispute coincided with a cultural exchange event involving Tao people from Taiwan reenacting an ancient maritime voyage to Batanes, which Chinese authorities appeared to overinterpret.Military officials also backed Philippine sovereignty, stating the government had formally rejected the claims during a symposium.The article highlights tensions in the West Philippine Sea and underscores the Philippines' commitment to defending its territorial integrity.