HOUSE Speaker Ferdinand Martin G. Romualdez on Tuesday welcomed the move by Google Maps to officially label the West Philippine Sea, calling it a strong affirmation of the Philippines’ sovereign rights and a testament to growing international support for the country’s maritime claims.
“The proper and consistent labeling of the West Philippine Sea on the widely used platform Google Maps is welcome news for every Filipino,” Speaker Romualdez said.
“This simple yet powerful update reflects the growing global acknowledgment of the Philippines’ sovereign rights over the maritime areas within our Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ),” the Speaker added.
Speaker Romualdez noted that this development aligns with the Philippines’ long-standing position following the 2016 Hague ruling, which recognized the country’s legal claim under international law.
“This reinforces what we have long asserted: that these waters are part of the Philippines’ territory, and all must respect our sovereign rights,” he said.
Speaker Romualdez emphasized that this recognition is not just a technical or cartographic correction but a geopolitical milestone.
“Google’s decision to reflect the West Philippine Sea label is more than a map update. It’s a geopolitical affirmation. This platform shapes global consciousness, and this recognition adds significant weight to our cause,” Speaker Romualdez said.
He said this resonates with the sentiments of millions of Filipinos who steadfastly uphold the country’s sovereignty and national dignity.
“For the Filipino people, this is more than just a name on a screen. It is a symbolic and moral victory, a reminder of our decades-long struggle to protect what is rightfully ours,” Speaker Romualdez said.
The Speaker also credited the nation’s diplomatic efforts, stressing that peaceful assertion through international law continues to bear fruit.
“Ang paglalagay ng West Philippine Sea sa pangunahing mapa ay isang makasaysayang pagkilala sa ating karapatan at soberanya,” Speaker Romualdez said.
“Ipinapakita nito na sa mata ng mundo, may saysay at bigat ang ating paninindigan—isang paninindigang nakaugat sa batas, katarungan, at pandaigdigang kaayusan,” Speaker Romualdez stressed.
He expressed hope that other institutions and nations would follow the lead of this platform in aligning with international law.
“We hope this move will encourage other mapping services, institutions, and governments to follow suit and acknowledge what the law and justice clearly uphold,” he said.
Speaker Romualdez concluded by stressing the importance of unity in the fight for Philippine sovereignty.
“Let this remind us: when we stand united in asserting our national interest, the world takes notice,” Speaker Romualdez said.
“The House of Representatives stands firmly behind all efforts that uphold Philippine sovereignty and promote peace and regional stability,” Speaker Romualdez said.
