DOT prepares for the June 12 Philippine Independence Day celebration

Preparations are underway for this year’s celebration of the Philippine Independence day on June 12, 2007 with the theme “Sama-sama tayo, tungo sa pag-asenso.”

The celebration according to Department of Tourism Secretary Joseph “Ace” Durano was divided into three parts: the Watawat, Kalayaan and the Kabayanihan modules. The first module will be focused on the Flag Day on May 28 at Alapan Historical landmark in Imus Cavite. This module will also cover other supplemental activities meant to highlight the importance of the Philippine flag. There will be a series of flag days every Monday which will start on May 21 to June 30. Streamers, flags, buntings will likewise be put up in all government buildings, schools public parks, malls, hospitals and other institutions.

Kalayaan module emphasizes the high point of the celebration on June 12 which is the Parada ng Kalayaan at the Quirino Grandstand to be participated in by all government agencies. This will also allow other historical places to replicate or do other related activities like the simultaneous flag-raising and wreath-laying rites that will be done in Rizal Park in Luneta, Aguinaldo Shrine in Cavite, Barasoain Church in Malolos, Bulacan, Bonifacio National Monument, in Caloocan City, Pinaglabanan Shrine in San Juan, Cebu City and Davao City.

Part of the Kalayaan module is the Barangay Kalayaan sa Rizal Park. The lagoon area will be transformed into a typical Philippine village where the country’s best products and attractions can be seen. The One town, One Product (OTOP) program of the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) will be the high point of this village.

Kabayanihan module highlights the birthday of the national hero Dr. Jose Rizal on June 19 and the Founding of the City of manila on June 24 up to June 30. It includes as well the heroism and patriotism of all Filipinos from the early revolts through the revolution against the American colonizers and up to World War II.

To support this module, the Philippine Historical Association will hold a Colloquium on the Proclamation of the Philippine Independence at the Aguinaldo Shrine in Kawit, Cavite.