June 12, 2009 marks the 111th Philippine Independence Day
On June 12, 1898, Gen Emilio Aguinaldo formally declared the independence of the Philippines in a ceremony held at his house in Kawit Cavite.
Other two significant events highlighted this event, the first official display of the Philippine flag and the playing of the Philippine National Anthem.
During the 70’s of the Marcos era, celebrations were centered at the Luneta or Rizal park. There was a flag raising ceremony by the First Family, all dressed in Filipiniana costumes and wreath lying at Rizal monument. A parade depicting Philippine history including civic military march were the activities in the afternoon until late evening.
I miss to see that kind of parade where the participants were all in different Filipino costumes, how I wish my children would be able to see such parade. It gives me a sense of being Filipino; it reminds me of the grandeur of our culture and history.
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I’m sure it’s not too late to revive that sense of nationalism. Maybe it won’t be the same parade, but certainly something to puff our chest about… if only we can revive our nation’s pride.
arthur hello, I do get goose pimples when I attend flag raising ceremonies. Its a pity though that some don’t know how to show respect to the flag. Its the very basic way of showing love for our country.