JULY BABY. Prince William and Catherine, Duchess of Cambridge, confirm that their baby is due in July 2013. File photo from dukeandduchessofcambridge.org

MANILA, Philippines – It’s a July baby for Prince William and Catherine.

St James Palace announced that the royal baby is due in July 2013.

Here is the statement posted on the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge’s website on Monday, January 14:

“Their Royal Highnesses The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge are delighted to confirm they are expecting a baby in July.”

“The Duchess's condition continues to improve since her stay in hospital last month.”

The Palace announced Catherine’s pregnancy in December 2012. She was briefly hospitalized for Hyperemesis Gravidarum or severe morning sickness.

The baby is set to be third in line to the British throne after Charles and William, irrespective of its gender, following moves by the government to change ancient succession laws giving priority to male children.

William, the son of heir to the throne Prince Charles and the late Princess Diana, married the former Kate Middleton in April 2011.

News of the royal pregnancy was welcomed worldwide, with intense speculation on the baby’s gender and name.

Interest in the royal couple was recently fuelled with the unveiling of Catherine’s first official portrait. – Rappler.com