Araw Ng Kalayaan; Philippines Independence Day

Pinoys (Filipinos) across the globe proudly celebrate the 128th Independence Day (Araw Ng Kalayaan), showcasing heritage, military parades, and national pride, such as the large Philippine Independence Day parade in New York City. Independence Day celebration includes: Official flag ceremonies, parades and cultural shows, food and festivities, patriotic decoration, and, of course, global celebrations.

The main event takes place at the Aguinaldo Shrine in Kawit, Cavite, where the flag is raised, and the Declaration of Independence is read. Similar ceremonies occur at Rizal Park (Manila) and city halls nationwide.

All around the world, tens of thousands of Filipino Americans, families, friends, and supporters celebrate the Philippine Independence Day on June 12th until the end of the month in June. We experience a day filled with spectacular cultural performances, live music and entertainment, traditional and contemporary Filipino dances, colorful floats and community pride, delicious Filipino food favorites, and most of all, a powerful celebration of our heritage, unity, and freedom. Celebrations have become even bigger, more exciting, and more memorable, as we proudly celebrate our culture and honor the spirit of Filipino resilience and excellence.

A little bit of history about the Philippine Independence celebration: The original iteration of the flag, unfurled in 1898, is the one Filipinos still fly proudly today. The flag’s white triangle stands for equality, while the sunburst inside represents the eight provinces that took up arms against Spain. The blue stripe stands for peace, truth and justice and the red stripe for patriotism and valor. The three stars symbolize the three island groups of Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao.

Philippines Independence Day timeline:
June 12, 1898
General Emilio Aguinaldo Declares Independence Independence Day is celebrated on June 12 because of the general’s declaration 121 years ago.
July 4, 1946
The Philippines Gains Independence The U.S. occupied the islands from the time they declared their independence from Spain until 1946.
1958
The Philippine’s National Anthem is Translated The original version, unveiled in 1899, was written in Spanish.
1986
First Female President Corazon Aquino was elected president and served until 1992.

Independence of the Philippines was a mighty feat. On independence day, the sacrifices of the national heroes are remembered, the country’s sovereignty is appreciated, instilling nationalism in the citizens, as well as celebrating the culture and tradition of its people.

As it is a national holiday, businesses, offices, and schools are closed, and families spend the day in parks, and doing other celebratory activities. Filipino communities abroad also celebrate with programs, and annual parades.

This year marks the 128th anniversary of the occasion, a reminder of the sacrifices and courage of those who struggled for freedom and the establishment of a republic independent from Spain. Mabuhay ang Pilipinas!

Mabuhay tayong mga Pilipino! -By Anonymous Editorialisttalking