The Atin Ito Coalition said it was not surprised by the latest narrative from China claiming that Batanes province is part of Chinese territory. In an exclusive interview with Bombo Radyo, coalition convenor and Akbayan Party President Rafaela David dismissed the claim as baseless.
Coalition calls claim false
David emphasized that Batanes is unquestionably part of the Philippines. She described China's actions as lies and pressure tactics from a foreign nation. The coalition noted that recent reports from Chinese scholars suggested Batanes falls under Taiwan's jurisdiction, implying it belongs to China.
Fisherfolk leader rejects narrative
Roberto 'Ka Dodoy' Ballon, a fisherfolk leader and co-convenor of the Atin Ito Coalition, stood firm that Batanes is Philippine territory. He labeled the claim as 'haka-haka' or 'fake news.' Ballon pointed out that the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) recognizes the Philippines' rights over the West Philippine Sea. He also accused the Chinese government of dictating what its citizens and academics say.
