How Do Filipinos Celebrate Independence Day?

One of the most important dates in the history of the Philippines is when it declared and sealed our independence from the Spanish rule on June 12, 1898. In our country, there are many ways by which citizens celebrate this day. Let’s get to know how and why we do what we do on this particular day.

How did it start?

The annual observance of June 12 started when former President Diosdado Macapagal signed the Republic Act. No. 4166 on August 4, 1964. This act made it a holiday legal; an act based on the Declaration of Independence on June 12, 1989, by General Emilio Aguinaldo including revolutionaries against the Spanish colonizers.

The first ever flag of the Philippines was raised accompanied by the national anthem in 1898. Unfortunately, Spain and the United States of America did not recognize the claim. The Treaty of Paris ended the war between the United States and Spain. Spain then surrendered the Philippines to the United States.

After the revolt of the Philippines against the United States, the country acquired its national sovereignty on July 4, 1946.

Originally, the holiday was observed on July 4 that was until Republic Act. No. 4166, which moved the holiday to June 12.

So what do Filipinos do during this day?

Parades

Independence day, or “Araw ng Kalayaan,” is a holiday when the majority of people including employees, students, as well as government officials, cooperate and participate in national events such as parades. The main highlight of Independence day is when the police and military hold a parade in Manila. Spearheaded by the President of the Philippines, it is followed by a speech and a 21-gun salute.

“Walang Pasok”

Philippine Independence Day is a holiday held on a national level; hence, all government offices are closed. There are no classes indefinitely in all schools. This includes some business centers but other institutions such as malls are still ready to serve the public. The public transport may still operate.

Filipinos treat this day with grandeur and colors through a little “salo salo” with friends. The day is also usually spent in malls and parks with the family. Filipino communities in other countries pay tribute to this day as well most especially Overseas Filipino Workers (OFW).

Visit local landmarks

One of the ways Filipinos celebrate this day is through visiting landmarks, museums, and art galleries that remind them about the Philippine history and the events that happened years ago. Somehow, it brings them closer to how the Philippines earned its independence. Click here to read more about places to visit in Baguio City.

Interact on social media

Independence day is also honored in social media. In today’s modern society, social networking sites, play a vital role in communication. By using this a powerful platform such as Twitter, everybody can now be updated and raise social awareness towards current issues. Every year for the last 2 or three years, the hashtag #rp612fic goes trending during Independence Day. Here are some unique and fun examples of those tweets.

Rare photo of the actual execution of Jose Rizal. #rp612fic pic.twitter.com/hobq1QIMFJ

— nancy bingay (@splakokak) June 12, 2017

 

When you're always the "Palaban" and never the "Ipinaglaban".#rp612fic pic.twitter.com/iKNgCPUBkX

— john jeffrey (@itsjeffcortez) June 11, 2017

 

maria clara pero deep inside sexbomb rochelle HAHAHAHAHAHHA pic.twitter.com/OofA7jGanR

— Janice (@PenafIor) May 30, 2018

We need to look back

Overall, We should celebrate and honor our Independence Day as it depicts our respect towards our forefathers who fought for our freedom and rights. In all honesty, there is no right way in celebrating this day. Based on my opinion, it is just a time for us to look back at our roots and never forget what happened in the past. It is for us to educate ourselves to spark and raise our love and responsibility towards our home.

So, fellow Filipino, Happy Independence Day!