Does Beijing own Batanes? Why Chinese scholars’ claim is a warning shot to Manila

A group of Chinese scholars has ignited a fierce debate by claiming Beijing holds sovereignty over the Batanes Islands, a move that has drawn sharp rebuke from Manila. Analysts interpret these academic assertions as a strategic warning, particularly in light of ongoing maritime border discussions between Japan and the Philippines.

The archipelago, strategically situated between Taiwan and the northern tip of the Philippines' Luzon island, became the subject of an academic forum at Jinan University in Guangzhou on June 30. Scholars from various institutions, including the prominent Chinese Academy of Social Sciences, reportedly concluded that Batanes legally belongs to Taiwan and thus falls under Chinese sovereignty. The university's news release, since removed, also stated that China holds sovereign rights over the nearby Babuyan Islands.

These claims are particularly sensitive given Beijing's stance on Taiwan, which it considers a breakaway province to be reunified, by force if necessary. The United States and its ally, the Philippines, do not recognize Taiwan as an independent state but oppose any forceful takeover and are committed to supplying Taiwan with arms.

The Chinese scholars further argued that the Philippines' control over Batanes lacks historical and legal foundation, citing territorial treaties and ethnic connections between the people of Batanes and Taiwan. The university stated the discussion served China's key strategic interests, particularly against the backdrop of the Japan-Philippines maritime talks. However, some analysts question the objectivity of these assertions, viewing them as manifestations of regional tensions rather than purely academic pursuits.

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The intention and objectivity of such supposed scholarly assertions are suspect. They are manifestations of turbulence in the relations and should not be overplayed.