MANILA – President Rodrigo Roa Duterte will lead the nation in the celebration of the 119th Anniversary of the Proclamation of Philippine Independence—his first as the 16th President of the Republic of the Philippines—on 12 June 2017, 8:00 a.m., at the Rizal National Monument, Rizal Park, City of Manila. This year’s theme is “Kalayaan 2017: Pagbabagong Sama-samang Balikatin” (“Independence 2017: A United Struggle towards Change”).

Simultaneous flag-raising and wreath-laying rites will be conducted at 8:00 a.m. at the Emilio Aguinaldo Shrine in Kawit, Cavite; Barasoain Church Historical Landmark in Malolos City, Bulacan; Pinaglabanan Memorial Shrine in San Juan City; Mausoleo de los Veteranos de la Revolucion in Manila North Cemetery; Bonifacio National Monument in Caloocan City; Pamintuan Mansion in Angeles City, Pampanga; and in all provinces, cities, municipalities, and Philippine embassies abroad.

Various cultural events and performances will be showcased at the Open Air Auditorium and Burnham Green in Rizal Park, and Quirino Grandstand. Different exhibits, skills demonstrations, trade fairs, and government services will be offered to the public at the “Mga Pampamahalaang Programa at Serbisyo,” which will run from 11-12 June, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., at the Burnham Green. Meanwhile, free medical, dental, and optical services spearheaded by the Department of Health will be held on 12 June, 7:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m., along the South Drive of Burnham Green.

These and other activities are made possible through the National Steering Committee on National Observances, led by the National Historical Commission of the Philippines (NHCP). The NHCP is a national government agency mandated to promote and preserve Philippine historical heritage through research, information dissemination, conservation, marking of historic sites and structures; and the maintenance and administration of national shrines, monuments, and landmarks.

For a complete list of activities for the Independence Day celebration download the program of activities here.