President Aquino to lead 118th PHL Independence Day celebration on Sunday

President Noynoy Aquino during 74th Commemoration of the Araw ng Kagitingan on April 09.
(Photo by Benhur Arcayan/Malacañang Photo Bureau)

MANILA – President Benigno S. Aquino III will lead the celebration of the 118th anniversary of Philippine Independence on Sunday, June 12, with the theme, “Kalayaan 2016: Pagkakaisa, Pagaambagan, Pagsulong.”

According to Presidential Communications Operations Office (PCOO) Secretary Herminio Coloma Jr., President Aquino will lead the 8 a.m. flag-raising and wreath-laying rites at the Rizal Monument in Rizal Park, Manila.

Simultaneous commemorative rites will also be held in key cities nationwide, including Kawit in Cavite; Malolos in Bulacan; Angeles in Pampanga; Davao City; Cebu City; San Juan City; Caloocan City, and several other parts of Metro Manila.

“The President will also hold on Sunday the traditional Vin d’Honneur for the diplomatic corps at Malacanang,” Coloma said.

The National Historical Commission of the Philippines (NHCP), in partnership with other participating government agencies, has also lined up other commemorative activities leading up to the June 12 celebration, including the Balik-Tanaw cultural heritage tour at the Pasig River, cultural performances at the Paco Park and Rizal Park, simultaneous job fairs nationwide, trade fairs, and public exhibits.

“We enjoin our people to participate in these commemorative activities and celebrate the freedom that our forefathers have fought hard for,” Coloma said.

Static display showcasing the current capabilities and equipment of the Armed Forces of the Philippines, Philippine National Police and Philippine Coast Guard will be held as part of the celebration.

Various trade fairs and exhibits will also highlight the anniversary while the Light Rail Transit and Metro Rail Transit will offer free rides to the public from 7 a.m. to 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. on Sunday.