Which Dutchman drew the first map devoted exclusively to the Philippines?

• A. Inseln Der Philippinen
• B. Phil. Insulae
• C. Philippine Map
• D. Insula Philippinae

Answer: (B)

This question turns on how early modern map labels were written. Dutch cartographers of the period commonly used Latin and kept titles very concise, especially for regional charts. A map devoted entirely to the Philippines would typically bear a compact Latin label that explicitly identifies the area—short and standardized for quick recognition. “Phil. Insulae” fits that pattern perfectly, acting as an abbreviation for the Philippine Islands and reflecting the era’s habit of using Latin with crisp, minimal wording. The other forms—German or English labels, or a longer Latin phrase—don’t align with the typical Dutch mapmaking practice of the time, making the Latin abbreviation the best fit.