by Marilie Bomediano
Prof Ambeth Ocampo presents the “Maps & Enmergence of the Filipino Nation” lecture.
Renowned historian, author, professor and curator, Ambeth R. Ocampo delivered a lecture to a selected group of Filipinos in Sydney last 26 September 2025 at the Bulwagang Rizal hall, at the Philippine Consulate General (PCG), Sydney.
His lecture titled “Maps and the Emergence of the Filipino Nation” was part of the Maritime and Archipelagic Nation Awareness Month (MANA MO) an initiative of the National Commission for Culture and the Arts (NCCA) to provide a better understanding of the Philippine maritime territory.
Professor Ocampo revealed how maps from the early period to the eighteenth century led to the evolution of the Filipino identity. This culminated in the Murillo Velarde map, the first ever map published in 1734. It was produced in Manila by Spanish Jesuit priest and cartographer Pedro Murillo Velarde, assisted by Filipino artisans Francisco Suarez who skilfully drew the map and Nicolas Dela Cruz Bagay who meticulously engraved it. Ocampo further emphasized that as an archipelago, the Philippines is interconnected by water and maritime networks.
Signing during the Donation Ceremony of the Murillo Velarde 1734 Map.
A copy of the Velarde map was donated to the University of New South Wales but the original remains housed in the National Museum of the Philippines Professor Ambeth R. Ocampo is a world renowned Filipino historian. He is best known for giving his readers and audience a different and interesting perspective on history. Always insightful, his lectures focus on our cultural heritage specifically the life of Dr. Jose Rizal, our other heroes. He is a professor and lecturer at various universities in the Philippines. Most recently, he was awarded the ‘Senator Gil Puyat’ professorship by Ateneo de Manila University.
He has published 35 books most of which have won awards. His most recent is “Rizal Without the Overcoat,” won the National Book Award.
He also writes “Looking Back” , his long-running column in the Philippine Daily Inquirer. He served as Chairman of the National Historical Commission of the Philippines from 2002-2011.
Philippine Consul General to Australia Charmaine Rowena C. Aviquivil presents a Plaque of Appreciation to historian Prof. Ambeth Ocampo.
In her opening remarks, Consul General Charmaine Rowena C. Aviquivil passionately emphasized the month’s theme and the vital importance of ocean literacy and a rules-based maritime order that inspires for a brighter future.
“It reminds us that our islands are bound not only by geography but by a common purpose to keep our waters secure, healthy, and life-giving for the generations to come,” she stated, Consul General Aviquivil said.
(L-R) Len Puzon, Conbsul General Aviquivil, Prof Ambeth Ocampo and Marilie Bomediano.
Consul General Aviquivil also confirmed shared priorities with Australia under the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea and noted Australia’s ongoing support for the 2016 Arbitral Award.
Sir Ambeth Ocampo KGOR is also a member of Order of the Knights of Rizal. He is highly respected both in the Philippines and abroad. His greatest contribution is having turned the pages of history into an exciting learning experience. He made history popular again, especially for the younger generation.
Photos by Marilie Bomediano & Ronna Guzman.
