12/06/2024
[THE ORGANIZATION OF AREA STUDIES MAJORS' STATEMENT ON THE COMMEMORATION OF INDEPENDENCE DAY]
The Philippines Independence Day, celebrated annually on June 12, marks a turning point in the country's history. It serves as the symbol of the triumph of the Filipino spirit in its quest for freedom and self-determination. This day commemorates the declaration of independence from Spanish colonial rule, a historic event on June 12, 1898, in Kawit, Cavite.
The history of this significant day involves centuries of Spanish colonization—for over three hundred years, Filipinos endured oppressive colonial policies, social stratification, and exploitation. However, the spirit of resistance never wavered, with numerous revolts and uprisings marking our history. The late 19th century marked a period of intensified nationalist sentiment, inspired by the reformist writings of José Rizal and the revolutionary efforts of Andrés Bonifacio and Emilio Aguinaldo, among many others.
On June 12, 1898, General Emilio Aguinaldo proclaimed the country's independence from Spain. This historic proclamation was held at his ancestral home in Cavite, where the Philippine flag was unfurled, and the national anthem, "Lupang Hinirang," was first played. However, the path to genuine independence was met with further challenges. The Treaty of Paris, signed on December 10, 1898, ended the Spanish-American War and transferred control of the Philippines from Spain to the United States for $20 million. This led to the Philippine-American War, a legitimate fight highlighting the Filipinos' tenacity in their continued pursuit of independence.
The struggle for full sovereignty persisted despite the official cessation of hostilities in 1902. It was not until July 4, 1946, after the devastation of World War II and the Japanese occupation, that the United States formally recognized Philippine independence, granting it the status of a sovereign nation. For many years, July 4 was celebrated as Independence Day until President Diosdado Macapagal officially moved the celebration to June 12 in 1962 to honor the original declaration of independence from Spanish rule.
Today, as we honor our nation's history, we must reflect on the challenges that continue to test our independence and sovereignty. The Philippines faces territorial disputes, particularly in the West Philippine Sea, where asserting our territorial rights remains a pressing issue. These challenge not only our sovereignty but also the livelihoods of our fisherfolk and the marine biodiversity of our waters. Upholding our territorial integrity is crucial for maintaining our independence in facing external pressures. Moreover, the fight for human rights and social justice remains as pertinent today as it was over a century ago. Extrajudicial killings, political violence, and attacks on activists, unionists, and journalists continue to undermine our democratic foundations.
Furthermore, the proposed charter change allowing 100% land ownership by foreign entities threatens our national independence. Allowing foreign entities to fully own land could lead to significant portions of national resources being controlled by non-Filipinos. This could undermine local control over crucial resources, including agricultural land, mineral deposits, and natural reserves, potentially prioritizing foreign interests over national welfare.
Ngayong Araw ng Kalayaan, tahasang nanawagan at nakikiisa ang Organization of Area Studies Majors sa patuloy na paglaban para sa tunay at ganap na pagkamit ng kasarinlang magbibigay kapangyarihan hindi sa mga pili lamang at banyaga ngunit para sa mga patuloy na kumakayod para mabuhay; para sa mga inaapi ng sistema; para sa mga napabayaan at kinalimutan at; para na sa mga buong tapang na nanawagan hinggil sa katarungang panlipunan at tapat na pamahalaan. Sa huli, makakamtam lamang ang kalayaang ito sa pamamagitan ng matibay na pagkakaisa ng mamamayan, pag-alala at paggalang sa tunay na kasaysayan, at kung walang humpay ang pagtatanggol sa karapatan ng bawat isa.
Nawa’y itatak natin sa ating isipan na ang pagkakaroon ng tunay na kalayaan ay karapatan ng Pilipinas bilang isang malayang nasyon. Kaugnay nito, nawa’y itarak natin sa ating isipan na karapat-dapat lamang na may ganap na kasarinlan at karapatan ang lahat ng Pilipino—taliwas sa pribilehiyong bitbit lamang ng iilan—na mabuhay nang nararapat at may dignidad sa bayang lulan sila.
Mabuhay ang mga Pilipino!
Mabuhay ang Pilipinas!
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