Philippines Independence Day

For the Philippines, Independence Day holds a lot of value. On this day, the Philippines gained independence from the Spanish colonial government and became a separate nation that could now live independently with its own set of rules and desires.

When is Philippines Independence Day, and how do people celebrate it? In this article, you’ll learn all about it.

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What’s the Philippines Independence Day?

The Philippines gained independence from Spanish colonial rule on June 12, 1898. Then, after being under American control, the Philippines also achieved independence from the United States on July 4, 1946. Before that, the Philippines wasn’t a separate nation. The Spanish and Americans used to rule and run the country with their own rules and regulations. The Philippines wanted a separate nation where they could live happily with their ruler who could improve the country.

 Finally, in 1962, June 12 was officially recognized as Independence Day in the Philippines.

This day is celebrated throughout the Philippines by arranging different events that we’ll discuss in this writing piece. But now, let’s talk about the history of Philippines Independence Day.

History of the Philippines Independence Day

The history of the Philippines Independence Day traces back to June 12, 1898. This significant date marks the declaration of independence from Spanish colonial rule by the Filipino revolutionary leader, General Emilio Aguinaldo. The proclamation of independence was made in Kawit, Cavite, where the Philippine flag was raised, and the national anthem was played for the first time.

The struggle for independence had been ongoing for years, with various Filipino revolutionaries fighting against Spanish colonization. The Philippine Revolution, which began in 1896, saw numerous battles and uprisings across the archipelago. The declaration of independence on June 12, 1898, came after years of resistance and sacrifice by Filipino patriots.

However, the road to true independence could have been smoother. The Philippines fell under American rule after the Spanish-American War of 1898, leading to the Philippine-American War (1899-1902). Despite this, June 12 symbolized Filipino aspirations for self-determination and sovereignty.

It wasn’t until July 4, 1946, that the Philippines finally gained full independence from the United States. However, in 1962, President Diosdado Macapagal signed Republic Act No. 4166, which moved the date of Independence Day from July 4 to June 12, to honor the original Declaration of Independence in 1898.

Since then, June 12 has been celebrated annually as Independence Day in the Philippines. It is a national holiday marked by various events, ceremonies, flag-raising ceremonies, parades, and cultural performances, highlighting the country’s rich history and the spirit of freedom and independence.

How Is the Philippines Independence Day Celebrated?

Philippines Independence Day holds great value for Filipinos. They gather each year to celebrate this beautiful national day for their country. To celebrate this day, Filipinos do many things in their country. One is taking leave from business, school, and all the other work. After taking the leave, they do the following things to celebrate this day:

Filipino Celebrations

1. Flag Raising Ceremonies:

The first thing that happens in the Philippines to celebrate Philippines Independence Day is flag hoisting. It’s done on all of the main buildings, schools, and colleges in the country, where thousands of people come together, and then the flag hoisting is done by the country’s president. Alongside that, people also sing the country’s national anthem to make hoisting the flag even more enthusiastic and exciting.

2. Parades: 

The Parades happen on this day to show how powerful the country is and that it’s always ready for all the challenges that may come. The policemen, soldiers, and military personnel are the ones who do the parades in the major streets and cities of the country. For their school’s celebration, these people and students also do it.

3. Cultural Performances:

The Philippines celebrate their rich cultural heritage through traditional dance performances, music shows, and theatrical events. These performances often reflect the country’s diverse ethnic and cultural groups.

4. Patriotic Songs and Speeches:

It’s impossible to celebrate the Independence Day of any country without singing patriotic songs and speeches. So, that happens in the Philippines too. Political leaders come together in the gatherings and then give motivational speeches to the public, letting them know about their strength, power, and the importance of having a separate nation. The public celebrates the day by listening to the speeches and singing and playing patriotic songs.

5. Decorations:

All of the Philippines decorate their streets, houses, and main points in the country to celebrate the national day.

6. Community Events:

Communities organize various events, including sports competitions, art exhibitions, and essay writing contests, to engage people of all ages in the celebration.

7. Public Gatherings:

Events organized by the government or local communities are held in public places, like parks and squares on the Philippines Independence Day. These gatherings often include speeches, cultural performances, and patriotic activities. Also, people have different types of drinks, eat different foods, and engage in discussions about their country and goals.

8. Fireworks Displays: 

Fireworks display light up the night sky and add to the festive mood in the evening.

9. Special Religious Observances: 

Some people engage in religious activities, such as visiting temples, churches, or mosques, to offer prayers and seek blessings for the nation.

These are all of the amazing ways Philippines people celebrate the national day of Philippines gloriously. 

When is the Philippines Independence Day Celebrated?

Philippines Independence Day is celebrated on June 12th of every year. In 2024 Philippines Independence Day will be celebrated on Wed, Jun 12, 2024.

Conclusion

Philippines Independence Day is celebrated on June 12 every year throughout the country. All of the Sri Lankans celebrate this day’s beautiful day by singing patriotic songs, listening to speeches of the leaders, having a holiday, flag-hoisting, and having their favorite foods and drinks. Also, they get together in schools and at major points in the country for Prades.

Read other National Independence Day Guides by daysdiscuss

Now I will answer a few of your frequently asked questions about Philippines Independence Day.