Philippine Independence: The Immortal Emblem of Humanity

 

    On this day in 1898, the Philippines declared independence after more than 300 years under Spanish rule. Every June 12th, Filipinos celebrate their freedom by flying their national flag high in the sky, just like the one waving in today’s Doodle. While there were many who fought for Filipino independence, there are a few people who are honored and remembered as heroes for their contributions in securing the country’s independence. José Rizal was a key member of the Filipino Propaganda Movement and inspired a wave of nationalism through his writings. Andrés Bonifacio, “The Father of the Philippine Revolution”, formed a secret society called the Katipunan and led a number of successful campaigns against the Spanish. General Emilio Aguinaldo was another notable figure who fought alongside the United States during the Spanish-American War. It was he who, on June 12, proclaimed the Philippine Republic as an independent country, demanding a “dignified place in the concert of free nations.”

    The Filipinos suffering began when the Spaniards colonized the country in 1565. Three hundred years have passed, and countless rebellions attempted to oust the Spanish. Filipino rebels, along with American troops, battled against the Spanish during the Spanish-American War. Soon after, this alliance was tainted, as the U.S. annexed the Philippines as a peace treaty with Spain. Thus, the Spanish rule persisted. It was only in the late 19th century when the citizens called for independence. This is where the "Katipunan", a revolutionary society led by Emilio Aguinaldo, was formed in Manila. Short after the Spanish-American War broke out, Aguinaldo made arrangements with the U.S. to assist them in the war. When he returned to the Philippines, he revolutionized and liberated numerous towns in Manila. Finally, on June 12, 1898, independence was proclaimed. But the freedom and peace didn't last long, for the Philippines had become a colony of the United States as a conclusion to the Spanish-American War. This caused the Filipinos to rebel against the United States. After two years of fighting from 1899 to 1901, the war ended when Aguinaldo was captured and took an oath of allegiance. Even so, violence from the American rule continued. In 1916, the Philippine Autonomy Act of 1916 was passed. This law promised independence if the Filipinos could govern themselves. This time leading to Independence Day was truly long and torturing as WW2 broke out. Once again, the Filipinos and Americans allied to make Japan pull out of the war.

Thus, July 4, 1946, marks the day the Philippines regained independence after almost four centuries of battles. Since then, June 12 was declared as Independence Day.

    Now, if we look at our country as it is, it will not shine as a country that has endured countless wars and sufferings. This proves that the people before us have made many sacrifices so that our generation can live comfortably without war. So, acknowledging the service of the soldiers, we remember our freedom and educate ourselves about our history. Continue to make paper flags, decorate the hall with blue, red, yellow and white and look back on history as a treasure of eternal time. Proudly wave the flag and sing the national anthem with joy and satisfaction. As Filipinos, we must unite, work hard, and appreciate the efforts of our fellow citizens.

References:

https://www.history.com/this-day-in-history/philippine-independence-declared

https://twitter.com/jinnipegwim/status/1403726718234464263

https://www.scoutmag.ph/4037/today-really-independence-day/