110th Philippine Independence

Every 12th of June, Independence Day is celebrated in the Philippines and anywhere in the world where there are Filipino communities. The declaration of the Philippine Independence was on June 12, 1898 which was proclaimed by General Emilio Aguinaldo after he and his forces fought and defeated the Spaniards who colonized the Philippines for a century. The highlights of the event were the display of the Philippine flag and the playing of the Philippine National Anthem. The said ceremony was held in the balcony of the General's residence.

In the Philippines, every town and city celebrates Philippine Independence Day with programs which include parade and cultural shows. In our city, there will be a gathering in the city's park. Every program starts with prayer and the raising of the Philippine flag accompanied by the singing of the Philippine National Anthem.


Filipino communities around the world celebrates this day. In the Northeast USA, particularly in New York, they held the annual parade and cultural show featuring Filipino celebrities last Sunday. The parade featured colorful and meaningful floats with beautiful ladies as part of the event's beauty pageant. They also had a street fair displaying Filipino foods and things that are Philippine made. On the other hand, in the west coast, Filipinos celebrated Independence Day in San Francisco Civic Center. The event is called "Fiesta Filipina". Filipino foods and merchandise were also showcased. There was also an entertainment show with Filipino celebrities.

In Europe, particularly in Holland, celebrated this year's Philippine Independence Day full of arts and music. This is showcasing the artworks and music by Filipino artists. The event was held at the De Duif Church in Amsterdam.

This year is the 110th year of the Philippine Independence. Every year of celebration commemorates all the men and women who died fighting for our Independence.

While in the Middle East, the Filipino communities celebrated with week-long activities commencing with tree-planting. There's also the Ambassador's Cup by the Abu Dhabi Bowling Club of which the proceeds goes to the Philippine Labour Office and to the Bantay Bata 163, which is the emergency hotline for abused kids in the Philippines.