Malacañang on Monday welcomed the appearance of the West Philippine Sea (WPS) label on Google Maps, saying the recognition affirms the country’s sovereign rights and brings pride to the Filipino people. In a Palace press briefing, Press Communications Office Undersecretary and Palace Press Officer Claire Castro said the move by the global mapping platform is a cause for celebration, especially amid continued disputes over the country’s maritime claims. “Definitely po, masaya po ito, nakakatuwa po ito (Definitely, this is a happy development, it’s heartwarming),” Castro told Palace reporters.

WPS tag on Google Maps affirms PH sovereign rights - Palace. (2025, April 22). SunStar Pampanga, p. 7.