NATIONAL
Advocates Philippines
Romualdez On Google Maps' West Philippine Sea Label: 'A Win For PH Sovereignty And Global Support'
Congress PH FILE
Speaker Martin Romualdez just gave a big thumbs up to something a lot of Filipinos might not have noticed yet—but it’s a pretty big deal. Google Maps has officially started labeling parts of the South China Sea within our Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) as the “West Philippine Sea.” And for Romualdez, that’s not just a cartographic update—it’s a symbolic victory for the Philippines.
“This is welcome news for every Filipino,” Romualdez said, clearly proud of this move. “It’s a strong affirmation of our sovereign rights and shows that the world is beginning to align with our cause.”
He pointed out that this change isn’t just about what name shows up on a digital map. It’s about what that name means. For Romualdez, it reflects the growing international recognition of the Philippines’ rightful claim over these waters, especially after the 2016 Hague ruling that backed us up under international law.
“Google’s decision isn’t just technical—it’s geopolitical,” he emphasized. “Maps shape how people see the world. So having the West Philippine Sea labeled correctly sends a strong message: the Philippines’ stand matters.”
He also shared how this resonates with ordinary Filipinos who have long felt strongly about the issue. “For the Filipino people, this is more than just a name on a screen. It’s a moral victory. It reminds us of our decades-long effort to protect what’s ours.”
Romualdez also gave credit to the country’s peaceful diplomatic strategies. He said this recognition shows that standing firm and respectful on the global stage is working.
“Ang paglalagay ng West Philippine Sea sa pangunahing mapa ay isang makasaysayang pagkilala sa ating karapatan at soberanya,” he said.
And while he was quick to praise this update from Google, he also encouraged other global institutions, governments, and tech platforms to follow suit.
“Let this remind us: when we stand united in asserting our national interest, the world takes notice,” Romualdez said. “The House of Representatives stands firmly behind all efforts that promote peace, regional stability, and Philippine sovereignty.”
So yeah, it might just look like a label on a map—but for the Philippines, it’s a powerful statement.
“This is welcome news for every Filipino,” Romualdez said, clearly proud of this move. “It’s a strong affirmation of our sovereign rights and shows that the world is beginning to align with our cause.”
He pointed out that this change isn’t just about what name shows up on a digital map. It’s about what that name means. For Romualdez, it reflects the growing international recognition of the Philippines’ rightful claim over these waters, especially after the 2016 Hague ruling that backed us up under international law.
“Google’s decision isn’t just technical—it’s geopolitical,” he emphasized. “Maps shape how people see the world. So having the West Philippine Sea labeled correctly sends a strong message: the Philippines’ stand matters.”
He also shared how this resonates with ordinary Filipinos who have long felt strongly about the issue. “For the Filipino people, this is more than just a name on a screen. It’s a moral victory. It reminds us of our decades-long effort to protect what’s ours.”
Romualdez also gave credit to the country’s peaceful diplomatic strategies. He said this recognition shows that standing firm and respectful on the global stage is working.
“Ang paglalagay ng West Philippine Sea sa pangunahing mapa ay isang makasaysayang pagkilala sa ating karapatan at soberanya,” he said.
And while he was quick to praise this update from Google, he also encouraged other global institutions, governments, and tech platforms to follow suit.
“Let this remind us: when we stand united in asserting our national interest, the world takes notice,” Romualdez said. “The House of Representatives stands firmly behind all efforts that promote peace, regional stability, and Philippine sovereignty.”
So yeah, it might just look like a label on a map—but for the Philippines, it’s a powerful statement.
Apr 15, 2025
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