The Philippines has firmly rejected allegations that the northern province of Batanes belongs to China, asserting that its sovereignty is settled and not open to discussion.

In a statement released by the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA), officials emphasized that claims linking Batanes to Taiwan—which China asserts as its own territory—are based on flawed interpretations.

The DFA called on so-called scholars making these assertions to focus instead on 'good faith studies' of the region, dismissing their arguments as unfounded.Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro Jr.further denounced the claims as 'baseless and ludicrous,' warning that allowing such narratives to persist could mislead Chinese citizens.He urged academics worldwide to debunk the theory, calling it 'nonsense.

' The controversy arises amid reports that researchers from Chinese institutions have argued Batanes is a geographical extension of Taiwan, thereby falling under China's jurisdiction.

However, Philippine officials maintain that the Consular district of the Chinese Consulate General in Laoag already includes Batanes, reinforcing their stance on territorial control.

This dispute highlights ongoing tensions between the Philippines and China over maritime and land boundaries, with both sides emphasizing the importance of sovereignty and historical claims.