MEMBERS of the P-pop boy group 1st One were chosen as bearers of the historic Murillo Velarde 1734 map, also known as the “Mother of Philippine Maps.”
The Asian Institute of Journalism and Communication (AIJC) conferred the title to 1st One members Ace, Alpha, J, Jayson, Joker, and Max, a few days before they represent the Philippines at the 2025 ROUND Festival in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, from June 21 to 22.
They are expected to perform their newest song “Map Your Vibe” at the festival, which serves as the anthem for the “Map Your Vibe” campaign that highlights the significance of the Murillo Velarde 1734 map. The campaign is supported by the AIJC and the National Commission for Culture and the Arts (NCCA).
“Our Chairman, Mr. Mel V. Velarde, who acquired an original Murillo Velarde 1734 Map as a gift to our country, conferred this title to 1st One after learning about the song they produced inspired by the map,” AIJC President Therese San Diego Torres said in a press statement.
“This recognition not only highlights their musical prowess but also their role as cultural partners in promoting the rich heritage of the Philippines,” she added.
Considered the first scientific map of the Philippine archipelago, the Murillo Velarde 1734 map was produced by Spanish Jesuit Friar Pedro Murillo Velarde along with two other Filipino artisans, Francisco Suarez and Nicolas dela Cruz Bagay. Suarez drew the map, while Bagay engraved it.
The AIJC chairman acquired the map at an auction in London in 2014, before it was handed to the Philippine government in December 2024 at the Malacañan Palace.
Aside from performing at the 2025 ROUND Festival, 1st One will turn over a commemorative Murillo Velarde 1734 map, which will serve as a bridge between Filipinos abroad and their home country, to Sentro Rizal at the Philippine Embassy in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.
“Napakalaking responsibilidad po nitong ibinigay sa amin. Hindi lang po namin bitbit ang P-Pop community, pero buong Pilipinas po when we showcase our talents to the global audience,” said Max.
“As representatives, we have to bring only our best—our A-game—to the international stage,” he added.
Inspired by the Murillo Velarde 1734 map, the forthcoming “Map Your Vibe” single highlights each individual’s unique journey toward their dreams, aspirations, and hopes.
“Map Your Vibe” is 1st One’s third music release this year, following “Alam Mo Ba” in March and the soul version of its 2024 song “Wala Ng Iba” in February.
