The Philippines on Thursday marked its 127th Independence Day with various activities such as flag-raising ceremonies and parades across the country.
In Manila, President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. led the celebration of the 127th anniversary of Philippine Independence and Nationhood.
The Presidential Communications Office (PCO) in a statement said the national program started with a flag-raising ceremony at the Rizal National Monument followed by wreath-laying rites in honor of the nation’s heroes.
A grand float parade featuring seven pivotal events in Philippine history was held at the Quirino Grandstand. Each float shows a story of heroism from different regions that helped the country achieve freedom.
Members of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) who represent the ongoing commitment to national sovereignty and public service also participated in the parade.
Performances were exhibited to highlight the country’s rich cultural heritage and unique traditions.
Kawit, Cavite
In Kawit, Cavite, Supreme Court Chief Justice Alexander Gahon Gesmundo led the wreath-laying and flag-raising ceremonies, gun salute, and parade at the Aguinaldo Shrine, according to a report by Super Radyo dzBB’s Christian Maño.
The Philippines declared its independence from Spain at the same venue in 1898.
In his speech, Gesmundo said that the enemy of the country is no longer colonizers but corruption, indifference, and abuse.
“Ang ating kalaban ay hindi lamang mga dayuhang nagnanais na sakupin tayo ngunit ang katiwalian, kawalan ng pakialam, at pang-aabuso na nakikita natin sa sarili nating bakuran,” he said.
(Our enemy is not only foreigners who want to conquer us but also the corruption, indifference, and abuses that we see in our own backyard.)
“Ngayon hindi lamang sa larangan ng digmaan makakamit ang ninanais nating pagbabago. Ito ay makakamit na rin sa mga hukuman, paaralan, at kung saan pa man kung talagang guguuthgin natin,” he added.
(Now, the change that we desire cannot only be achieved on the battlefield. It can also be achieved in the courts, schools, and everywhere else if we really want to.)
Gesmundo pointed out that independence is not only a reward for hardship but also a purpose that should be strengthened every day.
Simultaneous flag-raising and wreath-laying ceremonies were also held at other significant historical landmarks:
“This year’s Independence Day celebration brings together history, patriotism and culture, a unified tribute to the legacy of Filipino heroes and a hopeful step toward a stronger and more united future,” the PCO said.
The Philippines proclaimed independence on June 12, 1898 at the ancestral home of General Emilio Aguinaldo in Kawit after 333 years under the Spanish colonial rule. —VAL, GMA Integrated News
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