Philippines Independence Day
Philippines Independence Day
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.
Philippine Information Agency
MMIO, PIA Bldg., Visayas Ave.
Quezon City, Philippines
63-2-929-4521
www.pia.gov.ph
AmerBkDays-2000, p. 441
AnnivHol-2000, p. 99
NatlHolWrld-1968, p. 83