Speech of Mr. Mel V. Velarde at the Ceremonial Turnover of Commemorative Murillo Velarde 1734 Map to SB19
Mel Velasco Velarde Chairman, Asian Institute of Journalism and Communication Chairman, NOW Group of Companies (NOW Telecom, NOW Corporation and NOW Cable) National Library of the Philippines October 29, 2024
It is a profound honor to stand before you today to celebrate a group that has not only captured the hearts of millions but has elevated Filipino pride on the global stage—SB19.
As I present this commemorative award, featuring the historic Murillo Velarde 1734 Map, we are reminded of the powerful symbolism it holds. This map, one of the earliest detailed depictions of the Philippine archipelago, is more than just a geographical document; it is a testament to resilience, cultural identity, and the courage to chart new paths even in the face of challenges.
In much the same way, SB19 has journeyed through the rigorous world of entertainment, blazing a trail for Filipino talent worldwide. With their resilience, creativity, and passion, they have become a guiding light, inspiring those who dare to dream of a brighter future. Just as the Velarde Map once guided explorers to new frontiers, SB19’s music and dedication serve as a beacon for the next generation, lighting the way toward endless possibilities.
Pablo, our dedicated leader and main rapper, was born in Imus, Cavite. “I dedicate to you, Pablo, the vignette showing Cavite on the Velarde Map.” Pablo’s journey has been a testament to determination and self-belief. He has not only been the backbone of SB19’s music but also its heart, pouring his emotions into lyrics that have touched the lives of many. In ‘Go Up,’ we hear the line, “Kahit anong mangyari, ako’y tatakbo, patungo sa liwanag,” meaning, “No matter what happens, I will keep running towards the light.” This captures Pablo’s resilience, reminding us that even in a world filled with noise, there is strength in speaking one’s truth and moving forward. Like the Velarde Map—originally used as a colonial tool—Pablo’s journey reclaims and redefines purpose, transforming challenges into symbols of Filipino resilience and pride.
Josh, the charismatic lead rapper and sub-vocalist, hails from Las Piñas City, in Metro Manila. “I dedicate to you, Josh, that proud place called Pinas on the Velarde Map.” Josh’s life story of overcoming hardships and finding his purpose through music resonates deeply with many of us. His journey from facing life’s challenges to embracing his artistry symbolizes the essence of ‘going up,’ of rising beyond circumstances and emerging stronger. In ‘Crimzone,’ he embodies this spirit with the words, ” Now we run / We go hard
like / We’ll lose none.” It’s a song about putting in hard work—blood, sweat, and tears—to achieve one’s goals. He carries the courage of countless young Filipinos who dare to dream, regardless of their beginnings. Just as the Velarde Map invites us to look beyond its borders to honor a legacy of integrity, resilience, and unity, Josh inspires us to reclaim our heritage with pride and purpose.
Stell, born in Las Piñas City and raised in Manila. “I dedicate to you, Stell, the vignette of Manila on the Velarde Map.” Stell brings not just his voice but his soul to every performance. As the main vocalist and choreographer, Stell’s dedication to perfection transcends singing; it’s about giving his all for A’TIN. His voice soars like the peaks of our archipelago, reminding us of the beauty and strength of our culture. In their song, entitled ‘Kalakal,’ the line says, “You can’t stop this, we gonna get it. Who can? None, ‘cause we born to take it.” This reflects Stell’s passion, radiating brightly and guiding others, just like the stars that once guided Pedro Murillo Velarde, Nicolas dela Cruz Bagay, and Francisco Suarez. These stars, long used by explorers to navigate tumultuous seas through dark nights, are a testament to our heritage. Like the Velarde Map, Stell’s voice and dedication are a beacon, guiding future generations to honor the past and embrace their own journeys with pride.
Ken, main dancer and lead vocalist, known for his individuality and dance mastery, was born in Maragang, Tigbao, Zamboanga del Sur. “I dedicate to you, Ken, the vignette with Samboangan on the Velarde Map.” Ken’s journey to SB19 reflects a willingness to embrace his uniqueness while staying true to his roots. His love for his hometown and cultural background shows that we can reach global heights while remaining deeply connected to where we come from. This echoes the lyrics of ‘What?’—“Walang makakatigil sa’kin, patungo sa aking hangarin,” meaning “No one can stop me from pursuing my aspiration.” Ken’s artistry speaks to those who dare to be different, proving that authenticity is the key to breaking boundaries. Just as the Velarde Map, lost for 300 years, has returned to our shores to inspire and remind us of our deepest aspirations, Ken embodies a journey of rediscovery and resilience, encouraging us to forge a path to our people’s destiny.
Last but not the least, Justin, the youngest member, sub-vocalist, and creative director—born in Caloocan, now from Malabon City. “I dedicate to you, Justin, that proud place called Tambobo on the Velarde Map, which is now Malabon and Navotas, your birthplace and the birthplace of Nicolas dela Cruz Bagay, the engraver of the Velarde Map.” Justin represents the bright future of Filipino talent. He brings not only his creative vision but also a deep compassion and understanding for the group’s fans. His dedication to making every performance meaningful reflects the intricate connection between the Velarde Map and its details; every line and drawing tells a story, just as every note and movement Justin makes conveys emotion. In ‘MAPA,’ the words “Pasan mo ang daigdig, ‘di mo na kailangang mag-isa,” or “You’re carrying the world, but you don’t have to do it alone,” remind us that even the strongest among us need support, just as explorers needed guidance on their journeys. The Murillo Velarde 1734 Map now stands as a guardian of our shared journey, symbolizing
unity as we navigate a world shaped by globalization and interdependence, inspiring Justin, SB19, and a new generation to carry forward the strength of our heritage into the future.
SB19, you are more than just artists; you are modern-day navigators, charting a path for the future of P-pop and elevating Filipino talent to the world stage. Just as the Murillo Velarde 1734 Map has endured centuries, may your legacy also stand the test of time, inspiring countless generations. You remind us that our culture, language, and stories are treasures worthy of global recognition.
This commemorative map, a testament to our history, symbolizes the courage to embark on new journeys—where Filipino pride, resilience, and ingenuity shine brightly for the world to see. With this award, we honor not only where you have come from but also where you are leading us: toward a future of unity, strength, and limitless potential.
Congratulations, SB19. Thank you for being our modern-day mapmakers, guiding us toward a brighter future for Filipino music and culture. As carriers of the spirit of the Murillo Velarde 1734 Map and its enduring love for our people, may you continue to ‘Go Up,’ illuminating the path for the next thousand years.
Shine brightly like the stars, proving that no challenge is too great for those who dare to dream.
Related News
SB19 receives replicas of 1734 Murillo-Velarde map from AIJC, Mel Velarde
The map’s replicas are turned over to the members of the P-pop powerhouse for their commitment to promoting Filipino culture and history, and their work in spreading awareness to the historical document
WATCH | Looking dapper on their traditional Barong Tagalog, P-pop powerhouse #SB19 arrived at the National Library of the Philippines to receive the official replicas of the Murillo Velarde 1734 Map in recognition of their advocacy for Philippine culture and heritage as National… pic.twitter.com/vRDZ0I0D6g
— Manila Standard (@mnlstandardph) October 29, 2024
Three years after featuring the Philippine map in the music video of their song “What?”, the members of SB19 received official replicas of the 1734 Murillo-Velarde map from the Asian Institute of Journalism and Communication (AIJC).
Read more: https://entertainment.inquirer.net/583274/why-sb19-was-given-replicas-of-the-1734-murillo-velarde-map#ixzz8qZAgB5LM
Follow us: @inquirerdotnet on Twitter | inquirerdotnet on Facebook
‘IWAWAGAYWAY ANG WATAWAT’
— Inquirer (@inquirerdotnet) October 29, 2024
LOOK: SB19 — consisting of Pablo, Josh, Stell, Ken, and Justin — were bestowed the official replicas of the 1734 Murillo Velarde map to celebrate their contributions to Filipino culture. | @HMallorcaINQ pic.twitter.com/Zkx2eQWo6d
Ang Puerto de Cavite (Port of Cavite) ay isang makasaysayang daungan na may malaki at importanteng ambag sa pambansang kalakalan noong panahon ng Kastila. Ito ang naging pangunahing piyer ng komersyo sa pagitan ng Acapulco, na ngayon ay Mexico at ng Cavite. Ang prosesong ito ng komersyo ay mas kilala sa bansag na Manila-Acapulco Galleon Trade.
Ang Puerto de Cavite ay kilala rin sa tawag na Ciudad de Oro Macizo, o ang “Siyudad ng Ginto.”
Isa sa itinatampok sa vignette ng Mapa ng Murillo Velarde 1734 ang ilustrasyon ng Puerto de Cavite.
In 1635, Spanish soldiers established Zamboanga on the site of a local village. Its name comes from the Malay word “jambangan,” which means “place of flowers,” and the Zamboangan roadsides are bordered with bougainvillea, orchids, and other tropical flowers. The shrine of Our Lady of the Pillar, Fort Pilar, was established in the 1700s to protect Christian settlers against Moro (local Muslim) pirates, and it currently houses a branch of the national museum.
This vignette of the Murillo Velarde 1734 Map exhibits the very image of Zamboanga and its vicinity from Padre Pedro Murillo Velarde’s vision.
Many anthropologists debate over how agriculture spread to the Philippines, and a precise date of its beginning is uncertain. However, there are indirect indications and other pieces of evidence that anthropologists can use to estimate when and how particular crops arrived in the Philippines. Rice is a major agricultural crop in the Philippines nowadays, and many nations across the world buy rice and other Philippine products.
At the height of the Spanish rule, when businesses were fostered and developed to meet the principal demands of the colonizer Spain and other European consumers for tobacco, sugar, and abaca, traces of modern Philippine agriculture became most prominent to the outside world.
This vignette of the Murillo Velarde 1734 Map exhibits the 17th century rural settings in the Philippines.
The Pasig River in Manila flows into Manila Bay from Laguna de Bay, the Philippines’ largest lake. It streams north-northwest through Pasig, bisecting Manila, before entering the bay between the north and south ports. It is 14 miles long (23 km). During the Spanish colonial era, the wharves and quays near the river’s mouth served the early interisland commerce. At the time, the Pasig River was home to a vast population of barge and raft dwellers. The shallow, slow-moving creek is presently spanned by nine bridges. It is passable by small ships, but its harbor services have diminished.
This vignette of the Carta Hydrographica y Chorographica de las Yslas Filipinas or the Murillo Velarde 1734 Map exhibits Rio de Pasig, visually interpreted by the Spanish Jesuit priest, Padre Pedro Murillo Velarde.
The Island of Guam (Ysla Degvajan) was a stopover for the yearly galleon trade between Mexico and the Philippines. These galleons transported not only items for merchants and other supplies to Guam, but also Filipino soldiers, missionaries, lay assistants, bureaucrats, and even political expatriates and criminals. They were manned by Filipino and Mexican seafarers with a few Spanish superiors.
The records of Filipinos in Guam during the Spanish occupation are said to be sporadic. When Spanish Jesuit Father Diego Luis de San Vitores landed in Guam around 1668, his lay assistant was said to be a Filipino Cebuano named Pedro Calungsod. Calungsod was killed alongside San Vitores when he was martyred. Both San Vitores and Calungsod have been “blessed” by the Catholic Church; this is the first phase toward canonization. Calungsod was canonized in 2012. Early documents indicate that a company of soldiers in Guam in 1690 were Filipino Kapampangans.
The earliest Spanish colonists discovered fields with flat-bottomed sections and surrounded by small dykes, where rainfall could be collected in the center. Even before the 16th century, farmers had cultivated their rice fields with light plows with only one handlebar, each hauled by a single buffalo.
As early as the 17th century, the Spaniards had allowed the local chiefs or datus to take ownership of rice fields and have them farmed by sharecroppers. The Spanish encouraged Filipinos to plant corn and sweet potato crops from Mexico and Central America.
This vignette of the Carta Hydrographica y Chorographica de las Yslas Filipinas exhibits the rural life of 17th century Filipinos. Jesuit priest and cartographer Padre Pedro Murillo Velarde also illustrated the local Indios along with a few wild and farm animals such as the crocodile, the boa constrictor, and the carabao.
Filipinos of Indian ancestry who have established themselves in the Philippines and have ancestral ties to the country are known as Indian Filipinos. The name refers to Filipinos with pure or mixed Indian lineage who live in the Philippines, the latter as a result of intermarriages between Indians and locals.
The existence of intercultural relations and trade between the Indian subcontinent and the Philippine Islands between the ninth and tenth century B.C. is backed by Iron Age findings in the Philippines. Through the Indianized kingdoms of the Hindu Majapahit and the Buddhist Srivijaya, India had a significant influence on the Philippines’ diverse cultures.
This Murillo Velarde 1734 Map vignette showcases Indian Filipino women in native lambon and kumot.
Peninsulares refer to Spaniards born in Spain who resided in the Spanish colonies.
Criollos–full-blooded Spaniards born in the colonies such as the Philippines–were referred to as Insulares.
Indios (for those of pure Austronesian ancestry) and Negritos were two terms used to describe the Philippines’ indigenous peoples.
The Aeta, Agta, and Dumagat are collective designations for groups of Filipino aboriginal communities who inhabit different sections of the Philippines’ island of Luzon. They are thought to be among the Philippines’ first settlers, arriving before the Austronesian migrations.