[English translation of Presidente Benigno Aquino III’s Independence Day speech delivered in Sta. Barbara, Iloilo, on June 12, 2015]
IN OUR history, Independence Day has often been celebrated in Manila. This is because many of the events that led to our attainment of freedom happened in Manila and in places within its proximity. As President, I have chosen to go around the country because I am fully aware that the freedom we now enjoy was won by the actions of our countrymen from all over the Philippines. In 2011, I went to Kawit, Cavite; in 2012, I was in the Barasoain Church in Malolos, Bulacan; in 2013, we celebrated it in Liwasang Bonifacio in Manila; and last year, we went to Naga, Camarines Sur. Today, we are gathered here in Sta. Barbara, Iloilo, to recognize the contributions of our countrymen in the Visayas to the fight for our freedom. Next year, we plan on heading to a province in Mindanao to gaze upon our flag there and remember the heroism of our ancestors. Read more