Come June and we're about to celebrate one of the most historic events in the Philippines; the Independence Day. President Diosdado Macapagal changed the celebration date from July 4—the day a treaty was signed announcing the Philippines' independence from the United States—to June 12 in 1962. Since then, the national independence' day celebration is held annually.
This day is more than just a regular national holiday; it is the time of year when Filipinos honor the bravery and sacrifices made by the soldiers and heroes who defended from the Spanish rule. The generations of today and tomorrow should be motivated by their fortitude in battle and commitment to defending the nation against colonizers. We should value these brave deeds just as much as we value the gift of sovereignty.
History of Philippine Independence Day
In the latter part of the 16th century, the Spanish colonized the Philippines, an extensive archipelago of islands off Southeast Asia. Filipino priests who resented Spanish colony of the Catholic churches were the first to oppose Spanish rule. Members and intellectuals of the middle class in the Philippines started advocating for independence in the late 19th century.
Following 300 years of Spanish rule, General Emilio Aguinaldo-led Filipino rebels declare the independence of the Philippines during the Spanish-American War, where the famous moment of waving our national flag occurs. Midway through August, American troops and Filipino rebels had driven the Spanish from the Philippines, but Aguinaldo's dreams of independence were dashed when the United States formally annexed the Philippines as part of its peace agreement with Spain.
In a risky operation on March 23, 1901, Aguinaldo was captured by U.S after General Frederick Funston and a group of officers, posing as prisoners, surprised him in his stronghold in the Luzon village of Palanan. Aguinaldo pledged allegiance to the US and called for the end of the uprising, but many of his supporters continued to fight. The Philippines was gradually brought under control by American forces the following year. General Jacob Smith, who oversaw the atrocities, was court-martialed and ordered to retire for, in his words, transforming Samar into a "howling wilderness."
The three-year Philippine insurrection was deemed to be over when an American civil government assumed control of the country in 1902. However, intermittent opposition persisted for a while.
With American approval, the Commonwealth of the Philippines was created in 1935, and Manuel Quezon was chosen as the first president of the Philippines. The United States granted the Republic of the Philippines complete independence on July 4, 1946 but the declaration of independence latter changed to June 12.
Why June 12 not July 4?
June 12 wasn't always the official independence date. On May 12, 1962, President Diosdado Macapagal issued Presidential Proclamation No. 28, which declared June 12 a special public holiday throughout the Philippines, "... in commemoration of our people's declaration of their inherent and inalienable right to freedom and independence."
Reasons to Celebrate the Philippine Independence Day
Show love to the country
As citizens of this nation, we should take inspiration from their heroic tales. Even though we may have different ways of expressing how much we love the Philippines, let's be grateful for the little things we all do. Filipino communities often held program commemorating our national heroes and Filipino revolutionaries. Some schools also put up a program for 'Araw ng Kalayaan'
Spread the Filipino Culture
May this day serve as an opportunity to celebrate Filipino heritage, culture, and tradition in addition to remembering our hard-won freedom.
Filipinos are known for being more than just brave and courageous, as evidenced by our vibrant and rich traditions and culture from Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao. Many Filipinos are gifted and skilled in a variety of fields.
How does Philippines celebrate Independence Day?
Philippine Independence Day is celebrated every June 12th every year by the Filipino community. In 1898 Philippine independence was declared from Spain and was made an independent state. Many Filipino communities generally celebrate this day by visiting friends, singing and playing. All over the country, citizens and the government take part in parades. Due to the fact that it is a national holiday, all businesses, offices, and educational institutions are closed, and families spend the day enjoying celebrations in parks. Programs and yearly military parade are also held by Filipino communities abroad to celebrate.
However there are several activities and ways to celebrate it in and outside your condo.
Witness a Flag Hoisting
This is probably one of the most typical Independence Day celebrations that takes place. We can see government officials kick off the celebration by raising the flag and singing the Philippines national anthem during formal events. The Philippine Flag will be visible everywhere as it gets closer, including in the streets, government offices, schools, important landmarks, and even homes.
Go to Museums
The ideal time to schedule a visit is Independence Day. In fact, entry to the National Museum of the Philippines is free. We also provided a list of a few museums that you can visit with your loved ones. Knowing about our rich history and culture is a wonderful way to celebrate our country's independence day.
Explore Historical Places
Traveling to historical sites in the Philippines that are important to our freedom is another way to spend the Independence Day holiday. For instance, you could go see Intramuros. It is one of the most historic locations in the nation because it was home to some of the most significant figures from the Spanish colonial period, according to history.
Host a Mini Party
A party inside your condo is possible! What is a Filipino party without a feast? Aside from the feast, It is an ideal opportunity to combine several games and activities in honor of Independence Day. The main objectives are to familiarize ourselves with the facts to remember the occasion and to teach the younger generation about independence day.
Celebrating our Independence Day might be fun but in the end, remembering and paying tribute to those who fought for our freedom is what matters most.
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