To commemorate National Flag Day, the National Historical Commission of the Philippines (NHCP) led a flag-raising ceremony at the Dambana ng Pambansang Watawat in Alapan II-B, Imus City, on Monday, May 28.
The rites also commemorated the Battle of Alapan, which kicked off a two-week countdown to the 124th anniversary of the proclamation of Philippine independence with the theme “Kalayaan 2022: Pagsuong sa Hamon ng Panibagong Bukas.”
The wreath-laying ceremony was led by Imus City Mayor Emmanuel Maliksi, who was joined by NHCP OIC-Executive Director Carminda R. Arevalo, Cavite Provincial Tourism Officer Ms. Elinia Sangalang, and Salute To A Clean Flag Movement President Maria Simeona Cornelia-Pronove.
Maliksi spoke about the local government’s efforts to recognize the Battle of Alapan as one of the most significant events in the country’s history.
Furthermore, the local chief executive hoped that the historic event would be given greater national recognition as a form of holiday by the national government.
The Philippines began to celebrate National Flag Day in 1965, due in part to Presidential Proclamation No. 374, which declared May 28 as National Flag Day to commemorate the date the Philippine Revolutionary Army defeated the Spanish forces in 1898.
Under Executive Order No. 79 issued on May 23, 1994, the National Flag Day celebration period was extended from May 28 to June 12.
As a result, all Filipinos are encouraged to display the Philippine flag in all offices, establishments, and homes during the specified period.
Thumbnail photo from National Historical Commission of the Philippines