Celebrating Independence Day

JUNE 12 marks the celebration of Philippine Independence Day and this year is no different. Every year, millions of Filipinos from all over the world gather around and celebrate this important day.
The Philippine Declaration of Independence occurred on June 12, 1898 in the Philippines. Filipino revolutionary head General Emilio Aguinaldo (who later became the Philippines’ first Republican President) proclaimed the sovereignty and independence of the Philippine Islands from the colonial rule of Spain after the latter was defeated at the Battle of Manila Bay during the Spanish-American War.
The declaration however was shortlived as it was not recognized by the United States or Spain. The reason was because the Spanish government ceded the Philippines to the United States in the 1898 Treaty of Paris, in consideration for an indemnity for Spanish expenses and assets lost.
In the Treaty of Manila, the US recognized Philippine independence on July 4, 1946 and it was observed in the Philippines until President Diosdado Macapagal signed Republic Act no. 4166 into law on August 4, 1964, designating June 12 (which had been previously observed as Flag Day) as the country’s Independence Day.
The Filipino community of New York was on full display along trendy Madison Avenue last June 7 as Filipino-Americans here and the tri-state area witnessed and participated in the festivities celebrating the 111th celebration of Philippine Independence organized by the Philippine Independence Day Council Inc. (PIDCI), in cooperation with the Philippine Consulate General in New York.
The day started early for high government and consular officials as a flag-raising ceremony took place at 8am in front of the Philippine Center Building along 5th Avenue.
There were about 100 contingents that participated in the parade representing religious, nonprofit, political, regional, school alumni, professional associations and companies doing business with the Fil-Am community, aside from a few marching bands. Cheers of "Mabuhay!" and "Happy Independence Day!" could be heard from parade watchers, some of whom waved small Philippine flags. Most contingents were also greeted with warm applause from spectators. Kaya ang sigaw ko "Mabuhay ka Filipino" saan ka mang dako ng mundo. Pinoy Ka pa rin.