Philippines Independence Day – June 12, 2023
Over 120 years ago, the Philippines, a nation of over 7,000 distinct islands in the western Pacific, proclaimed its freedom from Spanish domination. This assertion was made by Gen. Emilio Aguinaldo, but it wasn't until 1962 that then-President Diosdado Macapagal declared it a national holiday by presidential decree. On this date in 1898, June 12, a stirring celebration that also featured the first public performance of the Philippine national anthem saw the first-ever raising of the Filipino flag. The country has come a long way. It is regarded as a freshly industrialized nation and a developing market. Additionally, tourism has a significant impact on the Philippine economy.
History Of Philippines Independence Day
The Philippines, which bears the name of King Philip II of Spain, were a colony of Spain for more than 300 years. Ferdinand Magellan arrived on the islands of the Philippines in 1521 and claimed it for Spain. Lapu Lapu was one of the indigenous leaders who resisted Magellan's request that they all submit to Spanish control. Magellan tried to kill Lapu Lapu by crushing him, but he was unsuccessful.
The Spaniards ultimately established a presence in the Philippines when Miguel Lopez de Legazpi conducted an expedition there in 1565. They began by constructing Intramuros, which was ultimately given the name Manila and served as the nation's capital, in 1571. A feudal system was eventually developed with enormous estates held by the Spanish and Filipinos serving as the labor force. The Philippines experienced prosperity throughout the Spanish era, and their rule was unremarkable. When the British took control of Manila in 1762, this changed. The Treaty of Paris, which was concluded in 1763, stipulated that the city would be returned in 1764.
The 19th century
Nationalism began to take root in the 19th century. Jose Rizal, a writer of the books "El Filibusterismo" (The Filibusterer) and "Noli Me Tangere," contributed to the growth of this uprising (Touch me Not). These books became a sensation, and nationalism swept the Philippines like wildfire. Liga Filipina was a group started by Jose Rizal in 1892 that advocated reform as opposed to revolution. Rizal was consequently detained and sent to Dapitan, Mindanao.
Alongside this, Andres Bonifacio founded the Katipunan, a more radical organization. August 1896 saw the beginning of a revolution, and Jose Rizal was put to death on December 30, 1896, seeming to support it even though he did not. However, the revolution escalated and his execution did little but inflame Filipino sentiment.
The conflict between the United States and Spain then broke out in 1898. On April 30, 1898, the Americans in Manila Bay defeated the Spanish fleet. Filipino revolutionaries seized the chance, surrounded Manila, and on June 12th, Emilio Aguinaldo proclaimed the Philippines independent. However, with Aguinaldo's capture in 1902, the American administration overcame the situation.
The 20th century
In 1935, the Philippines became a commonwealth and a semi-independent country under the American administration. As more American professors were sent to the Philippines, the literacy rate likewise rose. The Philippines would achieve full independence in 1945, as promised by the USA.
Japan invaded the Philippines on December 10, 1941, and took control of Manila. The Japanese now controlled the whole Philippines. Manila was retaken by American forces in the Philippines in October 1944. On July 4, 1946, the Philippines gained its independence. The first leader of the newly independent country was Manuel Roxas.
When Is The Philippines Independence Day
Every year on June 12, the Philippines commemorates its independence.
Traditions
The achievement of Philippine independence was impressive. On the nation's independence day, the sacrifices made by its national heroes are commemorated, the sovereignty of the nation is honored, nationalism is instilled in the populace, and the culture and traditions of the nation's people are celebrated.
All around the country, citizens and the government take part in parades. Because it is a national holiday, all businesses, offices, and educational institutions are closed, and families spend the day enjoying celebrations in parks. Programs and yearly parades are also held by Filipino communities abroad to celebrate.
Philippines Independence Day Timeline
June 12, 1898
Independence is proclaimed by General Emilio Aguinaldo
Due to the general declaration from 121 years ago, Independence Day is observed on June 12.
July 4, 1946
Independence is won by the Philippines
From the time the islands proclaimed their independence from Spain until 1946, the U.S. had control of them.
1958
The National Anthem of the Philippines is Translated
Spanish was the original version's language, published in 1899.
1986
Initially, a female president
Electrified as president, Corazon Aquino held the position until 1992.
Philippines Independence Day By The Numbers
- The Philippines' 7,100 islands make up the country.
- The proportion of Tagalog speakers in the Filipino population is 28.1%.
- The Philippines' population is 108.1 million.
- The percentage of Roman Catholics in the Philippines is 80 percent.
- Ferdinand Magellan claimed the Philippine islands for Spain in 1521.
5 Filipinos With Whom We'd Like TO party
1. Lou Diamond Phillips
Simply said, The Bamba! He's a gifted performer who frequently flies under the radar, like that lost plane in a bad storm. You're so happy to see him again when he eventually reappears on the screen: greetings, old friend.
2. Manny Pacquiao
How many boxers become politicians? Now a senator in the Philippines, Manny. Keep trying to win his favor.
3. Apl.de.ap
having three languages down pat? Check! Most bizarre name ever? Not quite, but near. a band member who makes you feel uneasy about your musical preferences? Yup! The Black Eyed Peas' Apl.de.ap, who is constantly fashionable, will undoubtedly make dinner conversation lively.
4. Imelda Marcos
She was compelled to leave with her husband, former President Ferdinand Marcos, to Hawaii following a revolution in 1986. Imelda had a connection to shoes as well.
5. Bruno Mars
He is only half Filipino, as we are aware. But if it's the half with the enchanted voice who will ask for "strawberry champagne on ice," we'll take it.
Philippines Independence Day FAQS
What is the real Independence Day of the Philippines?
On July 4, 1946, the Republic of the Philippines received official recognition as an independent nation.
When did the Philippines get its independence?
On July 4, 1946, The Republic of the Philippines formally became independent from the United States.
Why do the Philippines have 2 Independence Days?
The one on June 12 commemorates the day the islands gained their independence from Spanish domination. But until 1946, American troops were stationed in the Philippines. Although the Philippines gained its independence on July 4, which was also American Independence Day, they consider June 12 to be the day of their true declaration of independence.
Why We Love The Philippines Independence Day
1. Their national flag design has not changed
Describe your loyalty. The flag that Filipinos still fly with pride today is the original version that was unfurled in 1898. The sunburst inside the white triangle on the flag, which represents equality, stands for the eight provinces that fought against Spain. The red stripe represents loyalty and bravery, while the blue stripe stands for harmony, accuracy, and justice. The three stars stand for the Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao island groups.
2. Pride
The biggest development in our nation's history was its independence. In addition to ending more than three centuries of servitude, we decided to chart our course for the future of our country. ― Rodrigo Duterte, president of the Philippines, on June 11, 2019.
3. The Philippines has TWO independence days
The one on June 12 commemorates the day the islands gained their independence from Spanish domination. But until 1946, American troops were stationed in the Philippines. Although the Philippines gained its independence on July 4, which was also American Independence Day, they consider June 12 to be the day of their true declaration of independence.
Philippines Independence Day Activities
1. Attend an Independence Day parade
New York City hosted the Philippine Independence Day Parade on June 7 of 2020.
2. Try a new food
Balut, a "duck embryo street food snack," isn't something we crave, but it never hurts to try something new. The food in most cultures is interesting, so why not harness your inner Anthony Bourdain and try something new—if not controversial—for this holiday?
3. Create your own "family flag"
The symbols on the flags of nations, states, and organizations are numerous. Why not design a flag that embodies the qualities and aspirations of your own family?
