On Independence Day, President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. led national officials in calling on Filipinos to uphold the values of patriotism, unity, and national service, as the country marked the 127th anniversary of Philippine Independence on Thursday.
In his Independence Day message, President Marcos urged Filipinos to reflect on the sacrifices of the nation’s forebears and continue their legacy of heroism and civic duty.
“Today, we celebrate one of the proudest milestones in our history—the moment our flag was first unfurled in the sky on that eventful day of 1898 in Kawit, Cavite,” Marcos said. “Because of their heroism, we now enjoy the rights and privileges reserved for those who have a country they can call their own.”
He called on citizens to honor that freedom by becoming stewards of the country’s progress, character, and democratic values. “So, let us continue to bear the vigor of our ancestors as we defend our nation against those who seek to diminish the strength of our people,” the President said, emphasizing that freedoms must be used “solely for the improvement and protection of our citizenry.”
Closing his address, Marcos reaffirmed his administration’s goal of achieving “progress, stability, and prosperity” under the Bagong Pilipinas campaign.
“Mabuhay ang malayang Pilipino! Mabuhay ang Bagong Pilipinas!” he declared.
Senate President Francis Escudero echoed the President’s call, urging Filipinos to embrace unity, compassion, and a renewed pride in the nation’s history. “As we raise our flag and commemorate this important day, we honor their sacrifice and show our continued progress in upholding the freedom they fought for,” Escudero said.
This year’s theme, Kalayaan. Kinabukasan. Kasaysayan., chosen by the National Historical Commission of the Philippines, highlights how the country’s past shapes its present and informs its aspirations for the future. “We must preserve the spirit of democracy, solidarity, and compassion for our Motherland,” Escudero stressed. “Now is the time to rekindle the deep passion for love of country. Let us come together to build a nation that is united, compassionate, and continuously striving toward a New Philippines.”
He encouraged simple yet meaningful acts—such as showing respect, creating opportunities, and advocating for national unity—as ways to honor the country’s independence. “Long live the free Philippines,” he said.
Department of National Defense (DND) Secretary Gilberto Teodoro Jr. emphasized that peace and sovereignty must be actively and collectively protected by every Filipino. “Sovereignty and peace are conditions that must be proactively maintained and require collective and sustained efforts,” Teodoro said.
He warned of ongoing and future threats to the country’s freedom, noting that no nation—archipelagic or otherwise—is exempt from challenges to its sovereignty. Under the leadership of President Marcos, Teodoro said the government is working to bolster resilience, improve national connectivity, and ensure that all Filipinos benefit from these efforts.
“This is a time for genuine unity,” he said. “Filipinos, regardless of personal circumstance, must contribute the unique gifts that God has given each one of us to a concerted effort to uphold our flag within our own country and to remember it wherever we may be.”
“Mabuhay ang Pilipinas, hindi ka pasisiil,” Teodoro concluded.
June 12 marks the country’s declaration of independence from Spanish colonial rule in 1898, celebrated annually with commemorative events nationwide. In Metro Manila, a flag-raising ceremony was held at Rizal Park, followed by cultural programs and parades, including a grand presentation at Quirino Grandstand. This year’s celebrations emphasized the role of national identity, democratic values, and shared aspirations in building a stronger and more inclusive Philippines.
