Manila: Senate Majority Leader Francis Tolentino on Monday hailed the growing global recognition of the West Philippine Sea (WPS) following its latest inclusion on Google Maps. Tolentino described it as a ‘victory for all Filipinos’ and a testament to the country’s firm stance in asserting its sovereign rights under international law.

According to Philippines News Agency, Tolentino emphasized that the move by Google reflects how the Philippines’ claim over its exclusive economic zone is gaining traction among reputable international institutions. He called this a legacy for future generations, highlighting the importance of the inclusion on digital maps.

Tolentino, who is the principal author of the Philippine Maritime Zones Act (Republic Act 12064), underscored that the WPS and the Talampas ng Pilipinas (formerly Benham Rise) were clearly defined under the legislation. He noted that the recent update on Google Maps reinforces the legitimacy of the country’s maritime claims and mentioned that the world is taking notice because of the unity and collective efforts of the Filipino people.

The support from global allies such as the United States and the European Union strengthens the Philippines’ position, even amid continued aggression from China in the region, Tolentino added. He credited Filipinos, particularly the youth and online communities, for amplifying national interests on digital platforms and asserted that this recognition is about the assertion of identity and protection of patrimony.

Tolentino expressed hope that the Talampas ng Pilipinas would soon be reflected on Google Maps as well. The region remains labeled as Benham Rise on the platform, though the International Seabed Authority officially received the revised map on March 27. He reiterated his vision that the natural energy resources from the WPS and Talampas ng Pilipinas would one day fuel national development and hoped to see these resources being harnessed by Filipinos for Filipinos as a pathway to industrialization and prosperity.