House Speaker Martin Romualdez (PPAB)

House Speaker Martin Romualdez hailed on Tuesday, April 15 what called the "simple yet powerful update" to Google Maps in order to reflect its recognition of the West Philippine Sea (WPS).

“The proper and consistent labeling of the West Philippine Sea on the widely used platform Google Maps is welcome news for every Filipino,” Romualdez, the Lakas-Christian Muslim Democrats (Lakas-CMD), said in a statement.

“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.

The House leader emphasized that this recognition was not just a technical or cartographic correction but a geopolitical milestone.

“Google’s decision to reflect the [WPS] 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,” Romualdez said. 

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,” added the Leyte 1st district congressman. 

The Speaker said the move 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,” said Romualdez, arguably President Marcos' top lieutenant.

“Ang paglalagay ng West Philippine Sea sa pangunahing mapa ay isang makasaysayang pagkilala sa ating karapatan at soberanya. Ipinapakita nito na sa mata ng mundo, may saysay at bigat ang ating paninindigan—isang paninindigang nakaugat sa batas, katarungan, at pandaigdigang kaayusan,” he stressed. 

(Placing the West Philippine Sea on the main map is a historic recognition of our rights and sovereignty. It signifies that, in the eyes of the world, our stance holds meaning and weight—a position rooted in law, justice, and global order.)

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.

“Let this remind us: when we stand united in asserting our national interest, the world takes notice. The House of Representatives stands firmly behind all efforts that uphold Philippine sovereignty and promote peace and regional stability,” Romualdez said.