Philippines celebrates 123rd Independence Day

The Philippines on Saturday, June 12, 2021, celebrated its 123rd Independence Day starting with flag raising ceremonies in Manila and other areas.

Justice Secretary Menardo Guevarra led the flag raising ceremony at Luneta Park in Manila.

Guevarra was joined by Manila Mayor Francisco “Isko” Moreno in the ceremony, according to a report of Carlo Mateo on Dobol B TV.

The Philippine flag was raised at exactly 8:00 a.m.

National Historical Commission of the Philippines chairperson Rene Escalante also attended the ceremony.

The officials also offered flowers at the monument of national hero Dr. Jose Rizal in Luneta.

Meanwhile, a virtual message from President Rodrigo Duterte was aired at the latter part of the ceremony. 

Security inspection and last-minute clearing and cleaning operations were held at Luneta Park before dawn on Saturday.

Kawit and Barasoain

Simultaneous flag raising and wreath-laying ceremonies were also held at the Emilio Aguinaldo Shrine in Kawit, Cavite and Barasoain Church in Malolos, Bulacan.

According to a report of Mao dela Cruz on Dobol B TV, the ceremony in Kawit, Cavite was led by Mayor Angelo Emilio Aguinaldo, great grandchild of the country's first president Emilio Aguinaldo.

At Barasoain Church, local officials led by Bulacan Governor Daniel Fernando laid a wreath at the monument of General Emilio Aguinaldo in Malolos after the flag raising ceremony, based on the report of Rommel Ramos on Dobol B TV.

Social distancing and minimum health protocols were observed during the ceremonies in Kawit and Malolos.

Meanwhile, no Independence Day ceremony was held in Davao City, according to a report of stringer Jhesa Torrefranca on Dobol B TV.

The Philippine flag was just raised at Quezon Park in Davao City and wreaths were offered at the monument of Dr. Jose Rizal.

Feeding program

Meanwhile, in Malate, Manila, a group conducted a feeding program for at least 200 individuals on Independence Day.

The project dubbed "Kalayaan Mula sa Kagutuman" was conducted by Youth Initiatives in cooperation with Canva Philippines, The Sunday Project, and Arellano High-SSG.

Most of the beneficiaries were the homeless and PUV drivers.

Members of the group said they want to help their fellowmen in their own little way.

President Rodrigo Duterte earlier issued Proclamation No. 1107 declaring June 12 as a regular holiday. —Hana Bordey and Peewee Bacuño/KG, GMA News