The Adventures of Iñigo Boy

Independence Day

Today, the Philippines celebrates its 115th National Independence Day.

June 12 is one of the most significant dates in Philippines history because it marks the nation’s independence from the Spanish rule in 1898.

And although I’m a boy growing up outside the country, my parents make sure that I know my cultural roots. I take pride in celebrating this day because it is part of knowing who I am.

Dad and I proudly wore the Philippine National Dress in a cultural night held in Danal Hotel, Al Ain, Abu Dhabi.

What do People do?

Independence Day is a day when many people, including government officials, employees, and students, participate in nationwide parades.  However, the main highlight is the police and military parade in Manila headed by the country’s incumbent president, followed by a speech and a 21-gun salute.  Many Filipinos spend the day in parks and malls. Many Filipino communities in other countries also observe the nation’s Independence Day celebrations.

Public life

The Philippine’s Independence Day is a national holiday so government offices are closed.  There are absolutely no classes in all schools.  Many business establishments are closed except shopping centers. Public transport such as buses, passenger jeeps, and tricycles still operate but their routes may be limited due to the closure of streets used for parades.

Background

The annual June 12 observance of Philippine’s Independence Day came into effect 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. (timeanddate.com)

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Maligayang araw ng kalaaan to all the Filipinos around the world!

Mabuhay!