Philippines rejects Chinese academics' sovereignty claims

Channel NewsAsia (CNA)State / PublicCenter7 hr. ago

The Philippines has rejected a statement by Chinese academics from Jinan University, which claimed the Batanes Islands belong to China. The islands, located near Taiwan, are currently under Philippine administration and have hosted joint US-Philippine military exercises. The university's symposium, which argued the islands are geographically linked to Taiwan, was reportedly removed after being shared by some media outlets. While China’s foreign ministry declined to comment on the academics’ views, Philippine officials expressed concern over the narrative, calling it misleading and part of broader territorial disputes. The Philippines maintains its sovereignty over the islands, dismissing the claims as lacking merit. Tensions between the two nations remain high, particularly regarding the South China Sea, where China asserts control despite an international ruling against its claims.

Bias read (Center): The article presents a balanced account of both Philippine and Chinese positions, avoiding overtly partisan language. It reports on the academic claim without endorsing it, while quoting Philippine officials who express concern without taking a definitive stance. The framing remains neutral, with no