MANILA – House Speaker Martin Romualdez on Tuesday (15 Apr 2025) welcomed Google Maps’ decision to label the “West Philippine Sea,” calling it a “geopolitical affirmation” of the country’s maritime rights and a diplomatic victory for the Filipino people.
Romualdez emphasized that the move goes beyond a simple map update, stating, “It shapes global consciousness. This recognition lends weight to our lawful claim over the area.”
He cited the 2016 ruling by the Permanent Court of Arbitration, which upheld the Philippines’ sovereign rights within its Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) in the South China Sea.
“This is a symbolic and moral triumph. It validates our decades-long effort to defend what is rightfully ours through peaceful and legal means,” he said.
Romualdez praised the country’s diplomatic push, adding, “Ang paglalagay ng West Philippine Sea sa pangunahing mapa ay isang makasaysayang pagkilala sa ating karapatan at soberanya.”
He urged other global platforms and institutions to follow suit and recognize the Philippines’ position grounded in law, justice, and international order.
The House, he assured, will continue supporting measures that uphold national sovereignty and promote regional peace.
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