Imus, Cavite – The National Historical Commission of the Philippines (NHCP), together with the City of Imus, will spearhead the flag-raising and wreath-laying rites for the commemoration of the 125th anniversary of the Battle of Alapan at the Dambana ng Pambansang Watawat, Heritage Park, Miguel Santo, Alapan II B, Imus, Cavite on 28 May 2023, 8:00 a.m.
To start the program, flag-raising rites will be led by the Armed Forces of the Philippines, followed by the pledge of allegiance by Imus City Admin. Hertito Monzon.
The Honorable Senator Francis Tolentino will be the guest of honor and lead the wreath-laying rites as well. Other wreath offerors are NHCP Chairman Dr. Emmanuel Franco Calairo, Cavite 3rd District Representative Adrian Jay Advincula and Imus City Mayor Alex Advincula.
A prayer will then be offered by Rev. Fr. Benjamin Francisco, Parish Priest of St. Martha Parish and the opening remarks will be given by Mayor Advincula. NHCP Chairman Calairo will deliver an inspirational message and the introduction of the guest of honor will be done by Congressman Advincula.
Upon Emilio Aguinaldo’s return from Hongkong in May 1898, the Battle of Alapan was the first military engagement in the renewed revolution against Spain. Fighting erupted late in the morning and lasted until mid-afternoon. The Filipinos emerged victorious when the Spaniards ran out of ammunition and surrendered. To celebrate the first victory of the Filipino forces, Aguinaldo unveiled the Philippine flag brought from Hongkong. He unfurled and hoisted it for the first time amidst the applause and cheers of his men.
To commemorate this event, Presidential Proclamation No. 374 was issued on 6 March 1965 declaring 28 May as National Flag Day. Since May 1994, by virtue of Executive Order No. 179, National Flag Days are now celebrated from 28 May to 12 June, culminating in the celebration of Independence Day. The Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG), for their part, issued MC 2019-76 stating that all local government and DILG offices are enjoined to support the said celebration through flag displays and simultaneous flag-raising.
The NHCP is the national government agency mandated to promote Philippine history through its museums, research, and publications, and to preserve historical heritage through conservation and the marking of historic sites and structures.