Independence Day in the Philippines is held every 12 June and
commemorates the Philippines’ declaration of independence from Spanish
colonial rule. In 2018, Independence Day falls on a Tuesday.
The original Independence Day was held in 1898 in present day Kawit,
Cavite where General Emilio Aguinaldo read out the The Act of the
Declaration of Independence. Whilst this was an important milestone for
Filipinos, the Spanish government did not recognise their independence.
They then went on to give the Philippines to the United States after the
Spanish-American war as part of the peace treaty. After a war and the
Philippines’ own treaty with the United States, independence was granted
to the Philippines on 4 July 1946, coinciding with the American
Independence Day.
4 July was celebrated as Independence Day until 1964. After mounting
pressure from the community, the government declared that 12 June would
be The Philippines’ Independence Day and a national holiday. 4 July in
the Philippines would then become the Philippines’ Republic Day.
A parade in Manila marks the official celebrations, attended by the
President and government officials. The parade showcases the
Philippines’ armed forces as well as some local organisations and the
different ethnic groups of the Philippines. Firework displays are also
held, particularly in Manila.
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Philippine Holidays
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