Filipino's Ultimate Achievement

One of the most significant dates in the Philippine’s history is Independence Day. This day marks the nation’s independence from the Spanish rule on June 12, 1898.

Independence Day is being celebrated annually every 12th day of June. It is a day when many people, including government officials, employees, and students, participate in nationwide parades.  Police and military parade in Manila headed by the country’s incumbent president, followed by a speech and a 21-gun salute serves as the main highlight every year. Filipino communities not just here in the country but across the world also observe the nation’s Independence Day celebrations. Wherein flag is seen in various places across the streets of the whole country and many cars do also display miniature flags. Unfortunately, due to the pandemic, its protocols being implemented and as we limit mass gatherings and face to face interactions, we are not able to do and observe activities as much as before.

The annual observance of this event became effective after past President Diosdado Macapagal signed the Republic Act No. 4166 regarding this matter on August 4, 1964.  This Act legalized the holiday, which is based on the Declaration of Independence on June 12, 1898 by General Emilio Aguinaldo and Filipino revolutionary forces from the Spanish colonization.  The Philippines’ flag was raised and its national anthem was played for the first time in 1898.  However, liberty was short-lived because Spain and the United States did not recognize the declaration.

The 1898 Treaty of Paris ended the war between Spain and the United States. Spain surrendered the entire archipelago comprising the Philippines to the United States.  The Philippines started a revolt against the United States in 1899 and achieved national sovereignty on July 4, 1946, through the Treaty of Manila.  Independence Day was officially observed on July 4 until the Republic Act No. 4166, which set out to move the holiday to June 12, was approved on August 4, 1964.

This day is not just a regular holiday, it is a time to remember the courage,determination and sacrifices done by soldiers and heroes who fought for our motherland -they put their lives at risk to achieve our independence. Let us appreciate every little actions that we do to express how much we love our country. May this year’s observance remind us of  their stories of bravery ,through sheer courage and determination  and inspire us in overcoming the COVID-19 pandemic- let us also remember the sacrifices of front-liners and essential workers to help our country in these trying times of pandemic.

References:

https://www.timeanddate.com/holidays/philippines/independence-day 

https://www.zenrooms.com/blog/post/make-the-best-out-of-this-years-philippines-independence-day/amp/

https://www.usphsociety.org/2020/06/09/weekly-series-reflections-on-june-12-1898-philippine-declaration-of-independence-amid-a-dangerous-international-environment/