Phl’s WPS claim gets digital boost

The labeling of the West Philippine Sea (WPS) on Google Maps reflects the growing acceptance of the Philippines’ assertion of its maritime rights, according to the National Maritime Council (NMC).

“We look at this initiative of Google Maps as a reflection of the growing acceptance of the West Philippine Sea as being under our sovereignty, sovereign rights and jurisdiction,” the NMC said in a statement over the weekend.

The NMC said this development also serves as a “recognition of the practical value” of the country’s national prerogative to name its own maritime zones.

The council hoped the development would “help encourage consistency in the term’s use by the international community and facilitate the upholding of the freedom of navigation in the WPS, which is largely composed of the Philippines’ exclusive economic zone.”

Earlier reports noted that Google Maps has included the West Philippine Sea in its records.

A search for Scarborough Shoal, also known as Panatag Shoal — a traditional fishing ground within the Philippines’ 200-nautical mile exclusive economic zone — shows its location within the area labeled WPS.

In a statement, Google said the labeling of the WPS on global platforms like Google Maps helps raise awareness of the Philippines’ maritime entitlements in the region.

“It provides an internationally visible reference freely available to all across the globe and contributes to a stronger sense of national identity and unity among Filipinos, reinforcing pride in the country’s rights as a maritime and archipelagic nation. Its usage in other global mapping and navigation services would be most welcome,” Google added.

Meanwhile, the NMC reaffirmed its commitment to upholding the Philippines’ maritime rights and entitlements.

Armed Forces of the Philippines spokesperson Col. Fracel Margareth Padilla earlier said the military welcomed the inclusion of the WPS on Google Maps, saying, “As defenders of our national sovereignty, the AFP sees this as a valuable contribution to truthful representation and public awareness.”