Philippines Independence Day

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. The Americans called back Emilio Aguinaldo (1869-1964), the exiled rebel leader, and helped him bring centuries of Spanish rule to an end. Aguinaldo declared the islands independent on June 12, 1898. But the U.S. acquired the Philippines after signing the Treaty of Paris in 1899, and it wasn't until July 4, 1946, that the islands were granted full independence.
For many years, Filipinos set aside July 4 to celebrate their own independence and to acknowledge their longstanding ties to the United States. But in 1962, President Diosdada Macapagal changed the date to June 12, the anniversary of Aguinaldo's initial declaration of independence from Spain. The U.S. ambassador often speaks at Independence Day ceremonies in Manila, which include a military parade and the pealing of church bells. After the official ceremonies are over, Filipinos devote the remainder of the day to recreation. There are games and athletic competitions, fireworks displays, and Independence Day balls. In Hawaii, which has a large Filipino population, there are often Filipino fiestas celebrating Philippine heritage.

CONTACTS:
Philippine Information Agency
MMIO, PIA Bldg., Visayas Ave.
Quezon City, Philippines
63-2-929-4521
www.pia.gov.ph

SOURCES:
AmerBkDays-2000, p. 441
AnnivHol-2000, p. 99
NatlHolWrld-1968, p. 83

Celebration day: Jun 12