Independence Day Celebrations In Manila
Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. called for national unity and civic responsibility during Independence Day celebrations in Manila on Friday, marking the country’s 128th year of independence.
Footage shows troops and military vehicles taking part in a parade at the Quirino Grandstand. Performers wearing colourful traditional costumes can also be seen dancing and waving Philippine flags.
Marcos Calls For Unity
In his address, Marcos pointed to a range of challenges facing the country, including corruption, division, poverty, and the impact of global events and climate change.
“Yet, despite all of these, my belief and hope remain in the capability, diligence, and goodness of our race, the Filipino race,” he continued.
The president urged Filipinos to remain committed to the country’s future and to reject misinformation, division, and self-interest.
“To every Filipino, this is my call: Let us not grow tired of loving, choosing, and fighting for the Philippines. Let us deepen our awareness and be discerning of the truth. Let us use our capabilities for good, not for bad. Fight fairly every day, and do not take advantage of what others have worked hard for,” he stated.
Protests Target US Relations
Elsewhere in Manila, hundreds of demonstrators marched through the city to protest Philippine-US relations, confronting a line of police officers in riot gear.
“We are not really free for more than 128 years because we are dictated by the US imperialists, not only on our economy but also on our military,” one demonstrator said.
“The Philippines is not free because our economy, politics, and military are handled by US Imperialists, and the puppet is Marcos,” another added.
The Philippines marks its independence each year on June 12, commemorating its declaration of independence from Spanish colonial rule in 1898 after more than three centuries of Spanish control.
Article by Viory
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