NATION’S SYMBOL The Philippine flag is raised during the 128th Independence Day rites in Santa Barbara, Iloilo, on Friday, June 12, as local officials, residents and guests gather to honor the nation’srevolutionary heroes and highlight the continued fight against modern-day challenges such as poverty, illness and social injustice. —IAN PAUL CORDERO
BAGUIO CITY—Filipinos across the country commemorated the 128th anniversary of Philippine Independence on Friday, honoring the sacrifices of the nation’s heroes while highlighting the continuing struggle for peace, economic resilience, energy security and social justice.
In Baguio City, families visited the museum of Gen. Emilio Aguinaldo to view what his descendants believe is the original Philippine flag unfurled during the declaration of independence in Kawit, Cavite, in 1898. The museum also displayed the revolutionary leader’s personal belongings and battle flags from the Philippine Revolution.
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The Philippine Military Academy, meanwhile, held Independence Day rites at Fort del Pilar, where officials emphasized the responsibility of preserving the freedom won by previous generations.
In Bulacan, local officials gathered at Barasoain Church in Malolos City to mark the occasion with a call for unity and renewed commitment to democracy.
National Historical Commission of the Philippines Commissioner Dr. Francis Navarro said freedom was achieved through collective efforts across regions and remains an ongoing national aspiration.
Bulacan Gov. Daniel Fernando urged leaders to set aside political differences and focus on serving the people, stressing that true freedom is rooted in unity and shared action.
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In Bataan, the provincial government commemorated the 128th anniversary of Philippine Independence with ceremonies led by provincial officials and employees, highlighting patriotism and public service.
Traditional wreath-laying ceremonies were conducted in town plazas across the province despite drizzles and overcast skies.
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Insurgency-free
Gov. Joet Garcia stressed the importance of love of country, unity and hard work in advancing the welfare of local communities and contributing to national
development.
In Lucena City, the Calabarzon region was formally declared under “Stable Internal Peace and Security” status, making it the first region in the country to be declared free from the influence of communist insurgents
Quezon Gov. Angelina “Helen” Tan said the milestone reflected years of cooperation among local governments, security forces, and communities in addressing insurgency and promoting development.
Across Eastern Visayas, local officials paid tribute to modern-day heroes, including workers, farmers, fisherfolk, teachers, healthcare workers, police officers and soldiers.
In Tacloban City, Mayor Alfred Romualdez said Independence Day is not only about remembering historical figures but also recognizing ordinary Filipinos whose daily sacrifices help build and sustain communities.
Similar messages were echoed in Eastern Samar, Samar, Biliran and Northern Samar, where officials called for patriotism, unity and continued service to the nation.
In Santa Barbara, Iloilo, Independence Day rites focused on the continuing fight against poverty, corruption, illness and social injustice.
Mayor Dennis Superficial urged Filipinos to use the freedom won more than a century ago to confront modern-day challenges, while Rep. Kathryn Joyce Gorriceta stressed that true freedom requires justice and equal opportunities for all.
Energy security
In nearby Iloilo City, officials linked the celebration of independence to energy security and economic self-reliance.
Department of Energy Undersecretary Giovanni Carlo Bacordo said genuine sovereignty requires strengthening the country’s energy resources, food security, and economic foundations while reducing dependence on external forces.
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In Negros Occidental, Gov. Eugenio Jose Lacson said freedom remains incomplete without access to education, healthcare, livelihood and justice. He called on Filipinos to remain united despite differences and work together toward a more equitable and prosperous society. —REPORTS FROM VINCENT CABREZA, CARMELA REYES-ESTROPE, GREG REFRACCION, DELFIN T. MALLARI JR., JOEY A. GABIETA, IAN PAUL CORDERO, HAZEL P. VILLA AND CARLA P. GOMEZ
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