CEREMONIAL HANDOVER. President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. officially accepted the historic 1734 Murillo Velarde Map during a ceremony at Malacañan Palace on Friday, December 6, 2024. Dubbed the ‘mother of all Philippine maps,’ this map was crafted by Filipino cartographer Francisco Suarez and engraved by Nicolas de la Cruz Bagay, under the supervision of Spanish Jesuit Father Pedro Murillo Velarde. (Screenshot from Radio Television Malacañang)
MANILA – President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. described the 1734 Murillo Velarde Map as a significant ‘gift from the past’ that delineates the Philippines’ territorial boundaries. During the ceremonial handover at Malacañan Palace, Marcos emphasized that the map ‘captures the essence of our country’s maritime heritage.’
Marcos highlighted the map’s enduring relevance, stating, ‘Originally a depiction of the Philippines during the Spanish colonial period, it has evolved into a vital piece of evidence supporting our claims in the intricate legal battles of the modern era.’ He noted that the map was part of over 270 maps presented by the Philippines to the Arbitral Tribunal under the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) in 2013.
These maps played a crucial role in affirming the Philippines’ maritime rights, as recognized in the 2016 ruling by the Permanent Court of Arbitration concerning the South China Sea. Marcos specifically mentioned that the Murillo Velarde Map was instrumental in proving the Philippines’ continuous jurisdiction over areas now known as Scarborough Shoal and the Spratly Islands.
The President also pointed out that the map’s significance extends beyond its geographical representation, stating, ‘It not only outlines the physical features of our archipelago but also reflects the rich cultural interactions and traditions that shape our national identity.’
Marcos urged Filipinos to uphold the legacy of this historic map, encouraging them to remain steadfast in their national aspirations. He described the map as ‘a profound testament to the historical foundations of our national identity.’
He concluded by emphasizing the responsibility to pass on this legacy to future generations, saying, ‘We must not only appreciate the artistry of this masterpiece but also be inspired by its message to defend and assert our rightful claims with determination and integrity.’
The 1734 Murillo Velarde Map was created by Spanish Jesuit Father Pedro Murillo Velarde, with contributions from Filipino artisans Francisco Suarez and Nicolas dela Cruz Bagay. It was purchased by Mel Velasco Velarde at a Sotheby’s auction in London in 2014 and later donated to the Philippine government.
Recognized as the first scientific map of the Philippine archipelago, the map’s formal handover to the President fulfilled a stipulation in the Deed of Donation. (PNA)