The Philippines rejects assertions by Chinese scholars that the island province of Batanes, located in the country’s far north and near Taiwan, belongs to China. The Philippine defense minister calls the claim “baseless” and “ludicrous,” and says it is concerning and should be challenged. The remarks come after a report by China’s state-run GDToday on July 2. According to that report, scholars from institutions including Nanjing University discussed the issue at a June 30 symposium. The scholars argue that Batanes is a “natural extension” of Taiwan and therefore should be considered part of China. Philippine officials do not accept that framing and dispute any implied territorial connection. The episode highlights competing narratives over geographic and historical linkages in the region, with Manila asserting Philippine sovereignty over Batanes while Chinese academic voices—reported through Chinese state media—advance an opposing position.