These events celebrate the Philippines’ 126th Independence Day, honoring the struggles and triumphs that shaped its history and identity.
A wave of commemorative events and exhibits will echo the spirit of patriotism this June as the Philippines prepares for its 126th Independence Day celebration. The gatherings will offer a multifaceted journey through our rich history, showcasing the diverse tapestry of the cultures and narratives that define the country. These affairs serve as beacons of remembrance and unity, inviting us all to immerse in the essence of Filipino identity. This year’s celebration bears the theme: Kalayaan. Kinabukasan. Kasaysayan (Freedom, Future, and History).
Here are some of the events organized in honor of the holiday.
READ ALSO: Freedom Around The World: How Filipinos Are Celebrating Independence Day In Other Countries
Manila Clock Tower Museum exhibits
The Manila Clock Tower Museum has launched five concurrent exhibitions in celebration of the 126th Independence Day on June 12 and Manila Day on June 24.
The five exhibits to look forward to are: Kultura by Raul Isidro, Juno Galang, and Augusto Santiago Jr.; Bayan Ko by Cid Reyes, Marge Organo, Jik Villanueva, Michael Villgante, Abe Orobia, Darwin Guevarra, and Froilan Robas; Pintig-Sining by Manuel Baldemor with Paete Visual Artists; Pinagpala by Pila Artists Guild; and Hiraya by Sonny “Wiki” Anecito.
These exhibits launched on June 2 and will be available to view until July 31 at the Manila City Hall’s Clock Tower Museum.
Concert At The Park
The Concert At The Park is the National Parks Development Committee’s (NPDC) longest running cultural program. It started in 1978 and has evolved into a musical tradition that features choirs, dance groups, orchestras, and bands.
The NPDC will hold the event on these dates: June 2, 8, 16, 23, and 30 at the open-air auditorium in Rizal Park, Luneta. Performers include the Pasay City Symphony Band, Letran Singing Ambassadors, and the Las Piñas Band, among others.
“Likha 3”
Likha is an organization established in February last year that highlights the local crafts of Filipino weavers. It will return for its third edition, Likha 3, just in time for the country’s 126th Independence Day celebration.
Likha 3 will be held from June 7 to 11, 2024 at the PICC Forum 2 and 3 and admission is free. Local artists will participate in the event and the workshops and forums will be available to all attendees. The gathering is where the artisans can connect with key government agencies and find solutions and insights to thrive in their craft.
Check their website or Instagram account for more information.
“Sayaw Tungo Sa Kalayaan”
National Artist for Dance Alice Reyes will hold a dance concert on June 10 at Burnham Greens, Quirino Grandstand. It is entitled Sayaw Tungo Sa Kalayaan, a 126th Independence Day special.
Reyes and Ronelson Yadao will direct the dance concert. It will feature music from Ryan Cayabyab, Fabian Obispo, Jerrold Tarog, Francisco Santiago, and Kent Charcos.
“Parada ng Kalayaan 2024”
The National Historical Commission of the Philippines (NHCP) will conduct the much-awaited Parada ng Kalayaan 2024 on June 12.
According to NHCP, the parade will depict different historical events which signified the start of our journey to independence. It will showcase 20 floats from Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao.
The Philippine Information Agency reported the parade will commence at 3 in the afternoon. President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. will preside a flag-raising ceremony in the morning. NHCP Chairperson Lisa Guerrero Nakpil and Armed Forces of the Philippines Chief of Staff General Romeo Brawner Jr. will accompany the president in the wreath-laying rites after the flag ceremony.
Cities like Cavite, Malolos, San Juan, Caloocan, Angeles, and other NHCP museums will also hold flag raising activities.
Heritage Walks throughout cities in Manila
Renacimiento Manila posted a couple of Heritage Walk schedules on their Instagram account. Its purpose is to celebrate the birth month of Manila and the Philippines’ independence through knowing more about the city’s history.
The organization mentioned they will arrange talks and other cultural activities in partnership with Nilad Community for the upcoming celebrations.
Register here if you are interested to join.
Malaya Music Fest 2024
Okada’s Cove Manila, Southeast Asia’s largest and grandest entertainment space, will hold the most-anticipated post-Independence Day concert of the year. The Malaya Music Fest 2024 will set the stage for vibrant performances from top OPM artists, rappers, and bands.
The music festival will be held on June 15 and 16. Contact SM Tickets and Ticketworld, email [email protected] or contact +632 8555 5799 for more information or reservations.
UP Concert Chorus performance in The Netherlands
Meanwhile, the University of the Philippines Concert Chorus represented the country when they performed in the Netherlands from June 5 to 9. The group’s MusikaDASIG: An International Goodwill and Cultural Concert had 4 stops.
They held the concert to celebrate the 126th anniversary of the Philippine Independence. The group also commemorated the 125th anniversary of the Permanent Court of Arbitration (PCA) through their performances.
A report from the Philippine News Agency revealed that 450 guests witnessed the group’s concert in Diligencia Theater at the historic Lange Voorhout in The Hague. The concert began with musical pieces like “Cantate Domino,” “Laudate Dominum,” and “Salmo 150,” among various others. They also sang classics from Broadway musicals, ABBA hits, and The Beatles’ classics. Key figures like PCA Secretary General Marcin Czepelak and other notable international dignitaries attended the event. Praises met the UPCC’s phenomenal concert upon its conclusion.
Banner photo via Instagram @nhcpofficial
