120th Araw ng Kalayaan

Today marks the 120th anniversary of the Proclamation of the Philippine Independence. It commemorates the day in 1898 when Philippine Independence was formally declared on June 12, 1898, with the reading of the Proclamation of Independence in Kawit, Cavite.The proclamation, signed by 98 delegates, including General Emilio Aguinaldo, was read at the balcony of the Aguinaldo Mansion facing Calle Real (today’s Tirona Highway) by Ambrosio Rianzares Bautista. It was on this same occasion that the Philippine National Anthem composed by Julian Felipe was first played and the Philippine flag was unfurled.Filipino communities in other parts of the world organize parades and other events to celebrate Philippine Independence Day. The National Historical Commission of the Philippines, in collaboration with other national government agencies, local government units, educational institutions, and the private sector will conduct various activities to celebrate the event with the theme Pagbabagong Ipinaglalaban, Alay sa Masaganang Kinabukasan. The celebration in Kawit usually starts with a morning parade the traditional wreath-laying at the Aguinaldo Tomb, followed by a flag-raising ceremony at the Aguinaldo Shrine’s veranda. The day is capped with cultural commemorative activities in the afternoon and evening. There are also trade and job fairs, light-and-sound presentations, and other historical and patriotic activities.This year’s theme significantly points to the fact that despite the freedom that we enjoy, efforts to achieve positive changes in our society must be sustained for a brighter tomorrow. We owe it to the future generation to safeguard and uphold the liberty that we have gained through the selfless efforts and sacrifices of the valiant men and women of our country’s history.