BAGUIO CITY — Baguio City joined the nation in celebrating the 127th Philippine Independence Day on June 12, 2025, with the theme “Kalayaan, Kinabukasan, Kasaysayan.”
The ceremony commenced with the entrance of the Philippine National Flag led by the Baguio City Police Office, followed by the singing of Lupang Hinirang, Bagong Pilipinas Hymn, Cordillera Hymn, and Baguio Hymn, rendered by the Saint Louis University Glee Club.
As the country commemorates the 127th anniversary of Philippine Independence, Baguio City officials reflected on the meaning and relevance of freedom in today’s society.
Former Congressman Mark Go underscored the importance of remembering the past while acknowledging that freedom remains an active pursuit. “127 taon na ang nakalipas magmula ng maglunsad ng himagsikan ng ating mga martyr at bayani laban sa mga Kastila. It is an ongoing process. Bagamat iba na ngayon ang hinaharap nating kalaban, patuloy tayong tinatawag at hinahamon ng panahon na magpakabayani para sa ating sariling bansa.” He stated that the challenges may have changed, but the duty to protect the country remains. “Our independence and freedom, one that our ancestors have worked hard and shed blood for is not to be taken for granted. We are a nation of survivors, fighters, and even dreamers who refuse to be defined by our circumstances.”
Vice Mayor Faustino Olowan emphasized the message behind the celebration’s theme, highlighting the continuing relevance of liberty, history, and responsibility. “Kalayaan- this is the freedom we enjoy today. Hard-earned, fought for and defended by our heroes. Kasaysayan- our history is our guide at kinabukasan- ito ang panawagan sa ating lahat ngayon. What kind of future do we want to build para sa ating bayan? Para sa ating mga anak?” He also reminded public servants of their duty. “Let us be models of transparency, accountability, and integrity.” adding that compassion and dedication are important in public service.
Mayor Benjamin Magalong encouraged the public to reflect on freedom as a responsibility. “Sana po ay ating matutunan ang kalayaan ay hindi lamang tumutukoy sa pagiging malaya mula sa mga dayuhang mananakop kundi pagiging malaya mula sa pang-aabuso ng mga may kapangyarihan, kalayaan mula sa katiwalian, korupsyon at sa kawalan ng katarungan.” He added that moral courage is required to protect freedom. “Ang tunay na diwa ng kalayaan ay ang kakayahang manindigan para sa tama kahit mahirap, kahit mag-isa.” He concluded, “Ang kalayaan ay hindi natatapos sa watawat na iwinawagayway. Ito’y pinaglalaban araw-araw sa isip, sa salita, sa gawa, at sa puso.”
The program included musical performances by the Saint Louis University Marching Band, featuring Original Pilipino Music (OPM), a dance performance by the SLU Dance Troupe, and drama presentations from Tanghalang SLU. These included the spoken poetry piece Watawat by Dave Adrian Ortiz, Bingo! by Mario Deles II, and the dance drama Babangon, Pilipinas! The event concluded with the singing of Baguio March led by the SLU Glee Club.
Other Independence Day activities were also held throughout the city. These included the Kalayaan 2025 Job Fair at SM City Baguio, the Kalayaan Jam held at Malcolm Square and the Independence Day Quiz Bee at Baguio Country Club.
The city government of Baguio reaffirmed its commitment to preserving the nation’s independence and promoting civic responsibility. Through commemorative programs such as this, local leaders continue to encourage unity, respect for history, and active participation in shaping the country’s future. By Annjay Domilies
