Zamboanga Event Showcases Antique Maps to Reclaim Basilan's Historical Significance
The formal launching of "We’ve Always Been on the Map: The Murillo Bulletin Basilan Issue" has powerfully reaffirmed Basilan's enduring presence in both Philippine and global maritime history. This significant event, held on Wednesday, January 28, in Zamboanga City, served as a milestone in evidence-based historical reclamation, bringing together scholars, cultural workers, public officials, and advocates of local history.
Unveiling the Basilan Special Issue of The Murillo Bulletin
The launch unveiled the Basilan Special Issue of The Murillo Bulletin, which is the official biannual journal of the Philippine Map Collectors Society (Phimcos). This society is dedicated to the meticulous study of antique maps, prints, and historic documents relating to the Philippines. The Bulletin itself is named after the seminal Murillo Velarde Map of 1734, widely regarded as the "Mother of all Philippine Maps" for its panoramic and scientifically detailed depiction of the archipelago.
Mayor Hataman Emphasizes Basilan's Strategic Historical Role
Isabela City Mayor Sitti Djalia Turabin-Hataman highlighted that the Murillo Bulletin Basilan Issue clearly demonstrates that Basilan has never been absent from historical records, as the province has always been prominently featured on maps. In an interview on the sidelines of the event, she expressed a shift in perception, stating:
"For a long time, our generation thought that we were just an insignificant dot on the map. But now, realizing that we were very strategic, we’ve contributed a lot to the history of this part of our region."
Mayor Hataman further explained that this publication strengthens Basilan's resolve to reclaim its name and standing. She hopes the bulletin will help correct long-standing negative narratives about the province by providing credible references and data-based historical evidence, encouraging scholars from Basilan to conduct research and rewrite online content about the region.
Retired Justice Carpio Presents the Carta General del Archipelago
Lawyer Antonio Carpio, retired senior associate justice of the Supreme Court of the Philippines, played a key role in the event by discussing at length the 1875 Carta General del Archipelago Filipino. This map is regarded as the most complete and detailed official map of the Philippine territory during the Spanish period. Carpio presented historical maps as legal, political, and ethnographic documents, illustrating how cartography corroborates critical questions of sovereignty, territorial integrity, and national memory.
In a symbolic gesture, Carpio handed over a copy of the Carta General del Archipelago to the City Government of Isabela, which was received by Mayor Hataman. This act underscored the importance of preserving and utilizing such documents for historical accuracy and cultural pride.
Organizational Efforts and Future Implications
Organized by the City Government of Isabela de Basilan, this event marks a significant step towards fostering a deeper understanding of local history through historical cartography. By leveraging credible sources like the Murillo Bulletin and antique maps, Basilan aims to reshape its historical narrative and highlight its contributions to regional and national heritage.
