How To Commemorate Independence Day

Photo by Gil Nartea / Malacañang Photo Bureau (wikimedia Commons)

President Benigno S. Aquino III 118th Philippine Independence Day Celebration at the Rizal National Monument, Rizal Park in Manila City on Sunday (June 12 2016)

On June 12, 1898, the Philippines declared its independence. I can still recall as to how we Filipinos celebrate Independence Day. We mark the national holiday with ceremonies saluting the Philippine flag with so much honor to demonstrate solidarity. It is where I salute Emilio Aguinaldo for his significant achievements. On that historic day, thousands of people from the different provinces were gathered in Kawit, Cavite to enjoy freedom.

A very melancholic feature during Independence Day is the unfurling of the of the Filipino flag with the bright cheers of Filipinos. Back in high school, I would join activities in school that remembers integrity and honor for the country.

What do you do to commemorate this day?

What to do to commemorate Independence Day

Raising the flag

Flag raising Is very essential during this day because all together we salute our flag. It represents our Our Identity and our Nation. We give a moment, a time during the ceremony to recognize the fallen blood of every Filipino who fought and stood to achieve our Independence. So if you participate in any parade or any local event near you, make sure you pay respect to our flag.

Pray for the Philippines

In our province in Ifugao, we really do celebrate Independence day with a mass. It is something in our place that happens naturally. Celebrating mass during Independence day for us became a tradition to reminisce all the historic events.  This is something you could also do. You can pray for our country, the president, and pray that the Philippines would be a better place to live in every year. It’s the least we can do for our country.

Watch a Theatrical play or watch Filipino films

We depict and delineate the happening in the past through performing a play. It is one way of informing the public or the crowd as to how the Philippines achieved Independence. Check your local theater if they are scheduled plays on this day. You may also stay in the comfort of your homes and enjoy a film that talks about Philippine history.

Participate in a parade

This is what I like the most. I still remember when I was grade six back then when my teacher asked everyone in the class to make a flag design or to make a mini flag using an illustration board.   I was really excited because we would be joining the said parade, until then I realized the purpose of that. We participate in parades to recognize and show how glad we are to achieve Independence.