Malacanan Palace Manila Message

On June 12, 1989, between four and five in the afternoon, Gen. Emilio Aguinaldo, in the presence of a huge crowd, proclaimed the independence of the Philippines at Cavite el Viejo (Kawit). For the first time, the Philippine National Flag, made in Hongkong, was officially hoisted and the Philippine National March played in public. It was one of those moments in our history, wherein a moment so graphic, so dramatic, captured the courage and intense desire of Filipinos to be free, 101 years ago.

Today, June 12, 1999, we commemorate the 101st Anniversary of the declaration of Philippine Independence. It must have been radical and pioneering in those painful years of Spanish colonization. But we now take pride that we have contributed and taken part in building and preserving a distinguished democratic tradition that has become a standard for modern governments of today. This is a conviction that we now share with other democratic states that seek to frustrate the concentration of powers in any single individual or institution.

I believe that the struggle of our forebears to regain independence during the Spanish regime, culminating in the triumphant "Declaration of Philippine Independence", will always serve as an inspiration to generations of Filipinos and instill a sense of nationalism which is essential in building a nation. While we remember with minute detail the proclamation of our freedom, we do it greater justice by recalling how freedom inspired us Filipinos to rise above ourselves, expand our horizons and with new power, create our nation.

It hardly needs saying that the consolidation, vitality and viability of Filipino democracy and the sustainability of development will require the unceasing commitment, skill and efficacy of leaders and citizens in working together through our reforming institutions to solve common problems and meet the unending challenges before us.

Mabuhay ang ating ipinaglabang Kalayaan! Mabuhay ang Sambayanang Pilipino!

MANILA

June 12, 1999.