The Philippines celebrates a different National Heroes Day

the people of the philippines celebrates National Heroes Day on August 29 to honor and remember all the heroes of the revolution who helped lay the groundwork for the country’s independence.

The freedom to choose one’s own country is one of the most important qualities that every country should have. The Philippines did not have that freedom or national identity. But thanks to the efforts of national heroes like José Rizal, Andrés Bonifacio, Emilio Aguinaldo and Apolinario Mabini, they created a national identity and began to work for the dream of independence.

history of independence

Colonization officially began in 1565 with the arrival of Spanish explorer Miguel López de Legazpi from Mexico. But soon difficulties began to arise under Spanish rule.

Andrés Bonifacio responded by creating a militant secret society called the ‘Katipunan’. The purpose of the society was to organize an armed revolt against Spain.

Spanish rule responded with the execution of the likes of José Rizal and the exile of Aguinaldo and other leaders.

The Spanish-American War began in 1898 and the Philippines became independent from Spain. But his independence did not last long. The Americans occupied the islands the following year.

The US government was also challenged by armed revolts and guerrilla attacks. The Americans finally enacted the Philippine Home Rule Act on August 29, 1916.

Spanish rule responded with the execution of people like José Rizal and the exile of Aguinaldo and other leaders

The law, popularly known as the Jones Act, also has frameworks for creating a stable, fully elected government to replace the US government in the Philippines and help the island become a free country. Finally, the country managed to become independent in 1946.

Held on the last Monday of every August, National Heroes’ Day commemorates the Cry of Pugad Lawin, a revolt that started the 1896 Philippine Revolution against the Spanish Empire and that country’s long struggle for independence.

The flags we should have flown this Independence Day

After centuries of rule by Spain, the United States, and Japan, the Philippines finally achieved full independence at the end of World War II. This victory ended a protracted conflict that pitted the small island nation against major world powers.

Filipinos celebrate Heroes’ Day with parades, events at local shrines, and fireworks displays, honoring the known and unsung heroes of the Revolution.

The celebration in pandemic

National Heroes Day is an important day for all Filipinos. It serves as a reminder to commemorate those who fought and served in defense of the country they live in.

Also, this year, as the world grapples with a terrifying pandemic, today’s heroes, the people who gave their lives to rescue others, are also being celebrated and honored.

True to the Filipino spirit, locals commemorate National Heroes Day with cheers and fireworks. However, this year is a little different. The streets may be less crowded. This does not stop the people of the Philippines from honoring current and historical heroes throughout this month.

In this way, some alternatives have been proposed for this celebration, such as organizing meals by video call, sharing stories of loved ones who are no longer here, playing games about knowledge of the country’s history, watching movies on the subject, among others.

Not only is this a perfect opportunity to teach the kids facts about the meaning of National Heroes Day, but it’s also a wonderful way for the adults in the home to step back from their hectic work schedule and review the Philippine history.