Pioneering P-pop group SB19 receives copies of the 1743 Murillo Velarde map, or the “Mother of all Philippine Maps.” The group received this recognition for promoting Filipino culture in their songs and music videos.

In the group’s acceptance speech, member Josh Cullen shared, “Dahil po dito, patuloy na hinihikayat namin ang bawat artistang Pilipino na yakapin ang ating kultura at karanasan. Dahil ang bawat obra ay nagiging bahagi ng makasaysayang mapa na gagabay sa susunod na henerasyon.”

Also Read: SB19 and BINI Talks Global P-Pop Domination on Billboard PH

Additionally, a few years ago, the P-pop kings featured the map in their “What?” by SB19 music video, a song that tackles Filipino patriotism. A few of the “What” lyrics by SB19 include:

“‘Di na bala para iangat ang bandera

Bara na sa puso niyo na ang tatama

Ama salamat at ikaw ang agimat

Bawat banat iwagayway mo ang watawat”

All SB19 members (Pablo, Josh, Stell, Ken, and Justin) were present to accept the map. In addition, each of the five members received a specific portion of the map based on their place of birth.

The Murillo Velarde map plays an important role in Philippine heritage. The historic map proves that the Scarborough Shoal (Bajo de Masinloc) belongs to the country. 

Furthermore, the map was used to support the country’s case against China in the West Philippine Sea in January 2013. This then confirmed the Philippines’ 200-nautical mile exclusive economic zone (EEZ) in 2016.

Also Read: SB19 Shares How They’re Stronger Now Than Before

In 2012, Mel Velarde bid on the map in a London auction. Eventually, he donated it to the Philippine government, specifically the National Library.

The Asian Institute of Journalism and Communication (AIJC) chairman, Mel Velarde, explained SB19’s eligibility to receive copies of the map. He said this was due to their influence on the youth, hoping to inspire the upcoming generations to “value history.”

The Velarde family is known for advocating Filipino culture and history. The family runs the “Mapa Natin, Kwento Natin” campaign to emphasize the importance of understanding national history and culture. 

Watch all the SB19 members’ acceptance speeches here:

Sources: (1), (2), (3)

---

Keep Reading: SB19 Will Appear on Atom Boyz 2 Episode Next Week