06/12/2024
June 12th was the day that the Pilipino people declared themselves free. Both Spain and the US chose to not recognize the Pilipino declaration. The leaders of the Philippine Revolution touched on their historical base. They knew of the freedom their people had before colonization, so they stood for their God-given independence. Those leaders took a stance that wasn't legal, but it was just.
In the late 1890's they declared themselves free, and fought on that truth. It was another forty-five years before they were independent of both Spain and the US. However, the reality of the Independence their descendants now enjoy freely is the result of the illegal beliefs and declaration of the heroes who rebelled against legalized injustice and oppression.
In 1962, President Diosdado Macapagal issued Presidential Proclamation No. 28, which declared June 12 a special public holiday throughout the Philippines. His reasoning was "in commemoration of our people's declaration of their inherent and inalienable right to freedom and independence." This celebration is significant for the people of the Philippines. It should be encouraging to all of us as it signifies the will and spirit to fight for justice, regardless of what exterior forces say.