Philippines marks 127th Independence Day with tributes to heroes, hopes for the future

Manila: The Philippines marked its 127th Independence Day on Wednesday with ceremonies across the country celebrating the nation’s hard-won freedom, honoring national heroes, and reflecting on the continuing journey toward unity, democracy, and prosperity.

The main celebration took place at the Luneta, formally known Rizal Park in Manila, where President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. led the traditional flag-raising and wreath-laying ceremony at the Rizal Monument, paying tribute to Dr. Jose Rizal, whose martyrdom helped ignite the revolution after 333 years of Spanish colonial rule.

In his address, the president called on Filipinos to remember the sacrifices of the past while striving to build a better, more "inclusive" future.

Marcos Jr, in his speech at the Lunera Grandstand (in Filipino language), said: “It’s been 127 years since our flag was raised in Kawit, Cavite. But even before that day came, many lives were offered, families torn apart and lives cut short in order to achieve our freedom.”

He also honoured the nation’s heroes and freedom fighters who helped win Philippine independence.

“Jose Rizal, Andres Bonifacio, Apolinario Padre Gomes, Padre Burgos, Padre Zamora, Graciano Lopez Jaena, Emilio Aguinaldo, Melchora Aquino and thousands of unnamed heroes, they offered their sweat, blood and dreams in order for us to enjoy freedom. Out of their sacrifices, the Republic of the Philippines came to fruition.”

The chief executive also recalled how the Philippines, as the young nation, faced decimation from World War II ( 1939 – 1945), then faced the pains brought by the Oil Crisis (1973 to 1980), even as it continues to deal with the challenges of globalisation. 

“Amidst these challenges, we have gained strength and unified our nation, founded on the fire of sacrifice and tears. Today, we can freely express what’s in our hearts without fear, and we’re free to act without needing to hide or avoid anyone."

He also stressed on the benefits of democracy.

"In our New Philippines (Bagong Pilipinas), it’s not a sin to give one’s opinion; moreover, criticism is not wrong. This is what gives life and sparkle to our democracy.”

June 12, 1898, is the day Filipino revolutionary leaders, led by General Emilio Aguinaldo, declared independence from more than three centuries of Spanish colonisation in Kawit, Cavite. 

The Philippine flag was unfurled for the first time, and the national anthem, then known as the Marcha Nacional Filipina, was played by a local brass band.

Though true independence was not fully realised until July 4, 1946 (following American colonisation and Japanese occupation during World War II), June 12 has been officially observed as Independence Day since 1962, under President Diosdado Macapagal.

Beyond Rizal, the celebrations honored revolutionary figures such as:

Local ceremonies in provinces and cities across the country also paid homage to lesser-known heroes, community leaders, and freedom fighters.

From flag parades and historical reenactments to concerts, civic fairs, and military flyovers, the country’s patriotic spirit was on full display. 

Schools and government offices hosted programs exploring the nation’s history, while Filipinos took to social media to express their pride with messages of "Mabuhay ang Kalayaan!"

The Armed Forces of the Philippines held an Independence Day parade, showcasing modern military capabilities alongside tributes to the freedom fighters of 1898.

In the context of global challenges and domestic political divisions — as well as infrastructure and climate change woes, to regional tensions — this year’s Independence Day serves as a reminder of the country’s enduring resilience.

As the nation remembers its heroes, freedom is not just a memory; it is a continuing effort — by valuing the country's heroes, and by working towards their dream of a free and just society.

As the Philippines commemorates 127 years since its first declaration of independence, the spirit of kalayaan (freedom) remains alive — not only in ceremonies, but in the daily efforts of ordinary Filipinos determined to keep building a nation worthy of its past and hopeful for its future.