On July 4, 1946, the Philippines gained independence from the United States of America. It marked the time when the Philippines officially became a state: it had people, territory, government, and for the very first time, sovereignty. June 12, 1898 is one of the most significant dates in Philippine history. On this day, General Emilio Aguinaldo formally proclaimed the independence of the Philippines from Spain after over 300 years of colonial rule. This article covers the history of the Philippines from the recognition of independence in 1946 to the end of the presidency of Diosdado Macapagal that covered much of the Third Republic of the Philippines, which ended on January 17, 1973, with the ratification of the 1973 Constitution of the Republic of the Philippines. The CurrentPH News Team covered the flag raising ceremony that spearheaded the various commemorative event of the Philippines' 126th Independence Day on June 12, 2024, emphasizing national pride, historical reflection, cultural celebration, and current geopolitical challenges. This year’s theme, "Kalayaan, The Philippine Declaration of Independence (Filipino: Pagpapahayag ng Kasarinlan ng Pilipinas; Spanish: Declaración de Independencia de Filipinas) [a] was proclaimed by Filipino revolutionary forces general Emilio Aguinaldo on June 12, 1898, in Cavite el Viejo (present-day Kawit, Cavite), Philippines. It asserted the sovereignty and independence of the Philippine islands from the 300 years of Today, we celebrate the 122nd year of the Philippine Declaration of Independence. While we know to hold it special annually, we still have plenty of things to know about the historic day. Below, a few facts about the history of Independence Day. 1| The proclamation of Philippine independence took place on a Sunday. MANILA – The day the Philippines gained independence is the pinnacle of patriotism, and June 12 holds that symbolic sense of a truly independent Filipino nation. June 12, 2024, commemorates Philippine Independence Day. Filipinos throughout the world will celebrate the struggles and difficulties that the Filipino people have had to fight for independence from foreign powers. Independence Day in the Philippines is a national holiday observed every June 12. It commemorates the country’s declaration of independence from Spain in 1898. Looking for Philippines Independence Day? Find out information about Philippines Independence Day. June 12 As a result of the Spanish-American War, the United States became involved in the Filipino struggle for independence at the end of the 19th century. Explanation of Philippines Independence Day The Philippine Declaration of Independence (Filipino: Pagpapahayag ng Kasarinlan ng Pilipinas; Spanish: Declaración de Independencia de Filipinas) [a] was proclaimed by Filipino revolutionary forces general Emilio Aguinaldo on June 12, 1898, in Cavite el Viejo (present-day Kawit, Cavite), Philippines. It asserted the sovereignty and independence of the Philippine islands from the 300 years of In the Philippines — where Spanish and later US colonial rule persisted for nearly four centuries — June 12 is the real Independence Day. That date in 1898 was the pivotal moment when the June 12, 2024 - Today marks the celebration of the 126th Independence Day of the Philippines. Since achieving its independence on June 12, 1898, the country has consistently upheld the values of community, resilience, and courage shown by its people. In WWII’s aftermath, July 4 also became Independence Day for the Philippines in 1946. Top Image: Commemorative stamps celebrating Independence Day from the collection of Dr. Ricardo T. Jose. The 4th of July used to be considered an important national holiday in the Philippines. Latest News On Philippine Independence Day World The week in photos: June 7-13, 2025 A recap of news, sports, lifestyle, entertainment, and human interest images from the Philippines and around Independence Day is celebrated nationwide, with each region showcasing its unique customs and traditions. Major cities, including Manila, Cebu, and Davao, host grand festivities featuring parades, cultural presentations, and fireworks. Emilio Aguinaldo, the first President of the Philippines, issued a decree on June 5, 1898, proclaiming June 12 of the same year as Independence Day. The Philippine flag was officially unfurled for the first time, while the Nacional Filipina played at his house, then known as Cavite El Viejo. Explore ABS-CBN's official website for the latest news, entertainment and shows. Stay updated with the Philippines' top media and broadcasting network. Independence Day[1] (Filipino: Araw ng Kasarinlán; also known as Araw ng Kalayaan, "Day of Freedom") is a national holiday in the Philippines observed annually on June 12, [2] commemorating the declaration of Philippine independence from Spain in 1898. [2] In the Philippines, where colonial rule under Spain and later the United States endured for nearly four centuries, June 12 is the real Independence Day.
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