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One of the Earliest Obtainable Large Format Maps of the Philippines

This map of the Philippines was drawn from the account of George Anson's circumnavigation of the globe during his 1740–1744 expedition. It depicts the intricate maritime geography of the Philippine archipelago, focusing on the route Anson’s fleet took through the islands to reach and depart from Manila.

The chart illustrates Luzon and surrounding islands, including Mindoro, Samar, Leyte, and Masbate, with prominent navigational details such as shoals, reefs, and depth markings, essential for maritime navigation in these treacherous waters. Through the center of the islands, the Manila Galleon route is shown, the route by which the Spanish treasure fleet arrived and departed from the islands.

Anson’s voyage, commissioned by the British Admiralty, was launched during the War of Jenkins’ Ear with the primary objective of disrupting Spanish commerce and capturing prized galleons in the Pacific. Commanding the Centurion, Anson faced significant challenges, including storms, scurvy, and the loss of most of his fleet. Nevertheless, the expedition culminated in a momentous achievement: the capture of the Manila Galleon, Nuestra Señora de Covadonga, in 1743, off the coast of Samar. This victory yielded a vast treasure of silver and marked a critical success for British privateering efforts in the Pacific. 

Anson’s interactions with the Philippines were brief but impactful. After capturing the galleon, his crew navigated through the islands to avoid Spanish retaliation and refitted their ship while charting safe passage through the archipelago.  

The map emphasizes key elements of the Philippine archipelago, such as Luzon, prominently labeled as Luçon ou Luconia, and the surrounding islands, with their names and notable geographical features carefully marked. Shoals, reefs, and potential navigational hazards are identified, reflecting the precision required for maritime expeditions in this region.