NHCP Leads Philippine Independence Celebration
The National Historical Commission of the Philippines (NHCP) is set to lead the 127th anniversary of Philippine Independence and Nationhood on June 12, 2025, at Rizal Park, Luneta. This year’s event carries the powerful theme “Kalayaan. Kinabukasan. Kasaysayan.” The NHCP highlights that the celebration will showcase the nation’s enduring spirit and history.
The program will begin at 7 a.m. with a flag-raising ceremony at the Independence Flagpole near the Rizal National Monument. President Marcos will lead the ceremony, emphasizing the importance of the event. Following the flag-raising, wreath-laying rites will take place, with the President joined by NHCP Chairperson Regalado Trota Jose Jr. and Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) Chief of Staff General Romeo Brawner Jr. The AFP will provide arrival and departure honors, adding solemnity to the occasion.
Parada ng Kalayaan and Regional Festivals Highlight
The commemorative program will continue with the Parada ng Kalayaan 2025. This parade will vividly present key moments from the Philippines’ struggle for freedom. Additionally, it will feature vibrant cultural performances from various regional festivals, showcasing the country’s rich and diverse heritage. According to the NHCP, “This year will also include a showcase of select Philippine festivals from the regions,” promising a colorful display of traditions.
In the evening, Musikal III: Ang Tanghalan at Ang Kalayaan will be staged at the Metropolitan Theater. This musical event will feature prominent Filipino artists, offering a captivating tribute to the nation’s history and independence.
Simultaneous Ceremonies Across Historic Sites
Beyond Luneta, simultaneous flag-raising and wreath-laying ceremonies will be held at several historic landmarks. These include Dambanang Emilio Aguinaldo in Cavite, Barasoain Church in Malolos City, Pinaglabanan Memorial Shrine in San Juan City, Mausoleo de los Veteranos de la Revolucion in Manila North Cemetery, Andres Bonifacio National Monument in Caloocan City, and the Museo ng Kasaysayang Panlipunan ng Pilipinas in Angeles City, Pampanga.
The NHCP also noted that flag-raising ceremonies will occur in all 28 NHCP museums, local government units nationwide, and Philippine embassies abroad. This nationwide participation underlines the unity and shared pride in the country’s independence.
Government Services and Public Engagement
From June 10 to 11, the celebration expands with Mga Pampamahalaang Programa at Serbisyo, featuring over 50 government agencies across nearly 150 booths. These booths will offer public services and showcase various government programs.
The Kadiwa ng Pangulo, spearheaded by the Department of Agriculture and the Department of Trade and Industry, will sell fresh produce to the public. Meanwhile, Klinikalayaan 2025 will provide free medical, dental, and optical services, increasing accessibility to essential healthcare.
Additionally, the AFP and other uniformed services will mount a Static Display during the two-day event. This display offers the public insight into the military and uniformed services’ roles and equipment.
Pre-Event Highlights and Community Involvement
Prior to the main celebration, Musikalayaan 2025 brought uniformed personnel to the stage on June 5, blending artistry with patriotism. On June 8, the Parada ng Pag-anyaya featured a parade of firefighters navigating Manila’s major roads, engaging communities in the lead-up to Independence Day.
These activities demonstrate the importance of collective participation and remembrance in honoring the nation’s freedom.
For more news and updates on Philippine Independence Day, visit Filipinokami.com.