The 128th Philippine Independence Day was celebrated last Friday, June 12, 2026, in Cebu, across the nation, and in Filipino communities worldwide. Originally, the country observed its independence on July 4.
Historical Background
On July 4, 1946, U.S. President Harry S. Truman issued Proclamation 2695, recognizing the Philippines as an independent nation. This occurred during the presidency of Manuel Roxas. The celebration coincided with the United States' Independence Day, declared on July 4, 1776. The Philippines continued to observe Independence Day on July 4 for 16 years.
Shift in Sentiment
By the 1950s, anti-American sentiments emerged among Filipinos. Despite being declared free, the U.S. maintained influence over Philippine affairs. According to Britannica.com, groups like the Philippine Historical Association (PHA) criticized the United States and began discussing an "unfinished revolution." They advocated moving Independence Day from July 4 to June 12.
Presidential Action
On May 12, 1962, President Diosdado Macapagal, father of former President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo, issued a presidential proclamation declaring June 12 as the new Independence Day. This proclamation honored General Emilio Aguinaldo's declaration of Philippine independence on June 12, 1898. Republic Act No. 4166, passed on August 4, 1964, solidified the change.
Legal Clarification
The same law declared July 4 as a day of formal freedom from U.S. rule, rather than the country's true independence. Britannica.com omitted that Philippine leaders were displeased that when celebrating Independence Day on July 4, ambassadors from other nations would attend the U.S. embassy, leaving Malacañang Palace empty.
