TODAY, June 12, marks a significant milestone in the history of the Philippines: the 127th anniversary of the declaration of Philippine Independence following three centuries of Spanish colonial rule.
With the theme of “Kalayaan. Kinabukasan. Kinabukasan,” President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. led this year’s Independence Day celebration with a flag raising ceremony at Luneta Park in Manila.
The Chief Executive was joined by First Lady Liza Araneta-Marcos and their sons, Ilocos Norte First District Representative Sandro Marcos, Joseph Simon Marcos, and William Vincent Marcos.
In his message, Marcos paid tribute to the nation’s heroes who fought and gave their lives for the freedom that today’s generation enjoys.
It was Emilio Aguinaldo, the Philippines’s first president, who declared the country’s independence on June 12, 1898 in Kawit, Cavite, ending over 300 years of Spanish rule. Before this, the Philippine flag was first unfurled after the Battle of Alapan on May 28, 1898 in Imus, Cavite, where the Philippine Revolutionary Army defeated Spanish forces.
“The journey to reach that moment was long, arduous, and costly, requiring the sacrifice of selfless individuals for over a century. Because of their heroism, we now enjoy the rights and privileges reserved for those who have a country they can call their own,” said Marcos.
He continued, “The freedom our forebears fought for has inspired generations to offer themselves to causes that would advance the welfare of society and humanity.”
For the Chief Executive, such a “precious gift” has also encouraged individuals to be diligent and devoted to their respective fields for the country’s glory.
Marcos encouraged the Filipino people to value their heritage and strive for excellence to preserve this hard-fought freedom and their rights.
“Let us continue to bear the vigor of our ancestors as we defend our nation against those who seek to diminish the strength of our people,” Marcos stressed.
“Through our collective efforts, we will forge the path of progress, stability, and prosperity for our present and future generations,” he added.
After the flag-raising ceremony, Marcos offered a wreath of flowers at the Rizal Monument at Luneta Park, honoring the nation’s heroes. Also present at the ceremony were Armed Forces of the Philippines Chief Gen. Romeo Brawner, National Historical Commission of the Philippines Chairperson Regalado Trota Jose Jr., and Manila City Mayor Honey Lacuna-Pangan.
The First Family then headed to Quirino Grandstand in Manila to grace the Independence Day Parade, also known as “Parada ng Kalayaan.”
The event features a grand float parade that narrates historical events that shaped the nation’s journey to freedom, a festival parade that highlights iconic celebrations from different provinces, and the parade of government assets and personnel who maintain peace and order.
Before this, the First Lady spearheaded one of the key highlights of the 127th Independence Day celebration—the “LIKHA 4” artisanal exhibit. The three-day exhibit featured the Filipino artisans’ rich culture and world-class artistry and craftsmanship at the newly opened Foro de Intramuros in Manila.
