Key Points
- China claims Batanes province as its own territory on the grounds that it is an extension of Taiwan.
- The concern that Chinese militias settling in Batanes will not leave the region is widespread in the Philippines.
- It is suggested that if Batanes comes under Chinese control, the Benham Rise region will also be seized by China.
- The commentator points out the danger of the Philippines being encircled, stating that China almost controls the West Philippine Sea.
By the Numbers
A Philippine commentator argues that China is trying to control the country's north by claiming rights over the Batanes province. The commentary states that militias disguised as Chinese fishermen have settled in the region, repeating the exact same tactic used in Scarborough Shoal (Bajo de Masinloc) in Batanes.
According to the author, China's effort to portray Batanes as part of Taiwan is actually part of a strategy to completely encircle the Philippines. It is stated that if Batanes is seized, China will also dominate the Benham Rise (Philippine Rise) region, which opens directly to the Pacific Ocean, and will surround the country on all sides.
While emphasizing that the Philippines must defend its sovereign rights over Batanes and the West Philippine Sea, a call is made to be cautious against pro-China narratives within the country. The commentary also warns that future leaders of the Philippines should not fall under Chinese influence, recommending that senators visit Batanes, a strategically important region with a small population, to show support.
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Frequently Asked Questions
- What is the main basis for China's claim over Batanes?
- China is trying to portray this Philippine province as its own territory by putting forward the claim that Batanes is an extension of Taiwan.
- Why is Batanes so strategically important?
- The seizure of Batanes by China poses the risk of completely encircling the Philippines by facilitating access to the Benham Rise region, located to the east of the country, which opens to the Pacific Ocean and is thought to be rich in resources.
- What does the commentator advise Philippine officials?
- The commentator advises Philippine officials to visit Batanes to show support for the region and to ensure that future leaders do not pursue pro-China policies.
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