Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro Jr. on Thursday dismissed as “baseless and ludicrous” claims by Chinese researchers that Batanes belongs to China through Taiwan, urging academics worldwide to refute what he described as a false narrative.
Speaking to reporters, Teodoro expressed concern that such claims could be believed by Chinese citizens, saying they should not go unchallenged.
“We should not allow this to go unresponded to. All academics in the world should douse cold water already on this theory. Kalokohan na ‘yan,” he said.
His remarks came after reports that researchers from several Chinese universities and institutes argued that the Philippines’ control over Batanes allegedly lacks historical and legal basis, claiming the island province is a geographical extension of Taiwan and therefore falls under China’s sovereignty.
Teodoro said the study reinforces his belief that China intends to expand its influence in the Pacific.
“Signalling of a preconceived intention already. Hindi rin malayo na nasa plano nila ‘yan. It also validates what we have been saying—that they have a plan to control the whole Pacific Ocean,” he said.
The defense chief added that China’s assertions could further unite countries against what he described as Beijing’s “irresponsible behavior.”
“Sino ang sisisihin kapag nagkaroon ng anti-China feeling? Sila lang dahil sa ginagawa nila,” Teodoro said.
National Task Force for the West Philippine Sea spokesperson Rear Admiral Jay Tarriela echoed Teodoro’s position, warning that leaving such claims unanswered could allow China to distort history.
“Kapag hindi natin pinatulan itong mga ganitong kasinungalingan, uulit-ulitin lang nila and they are going to rewrite history once again,” Tarriela said.
He added, “Baka hindi natin alam, baka pati Ilog Pasig angkinin na rin ng China.”
