Summary
Highlights
The video clarifies that the June 12, 1898 event was a declaration of independence, not the full attainment of it. At that time, parts of the Philippines, including Manila, were still under Spanish control. True independence was achieved much later, on July 4, 1946, when the Americans left the country. The speaker notes that Apolinario Mabini considered Aguinaldo's declaration premature.
Historian Ambeth Ocampo suggests that the June 12 declaration was not the first. Andres Bonifacio declared independence twice, most notably during the Cry of Pugad Lawin. Many historians, particularly those supportive of Bonifacio, argue that tearing the cedula was a direct declaration of independence, expressing a break from Spanish authority, and thus should be recognized as the true independence day. This point also highlights the ongoing debate about who should be considered the first president, Bonifacio or Aguinaldo.
Rizal is highlighted as a significant figure in the revolution, specifically mentioned in Aguinaldo's speech as the 'spark.' His poem, 'Mi Ultimo Adios,' written in his prison cell, is credited with inspiring the Katipuneros to fight harder and achieve victories. The poem was shared by Paciano Rizal and then translated and disseminated by Andres Bonifacio, demonstrating Rizal's profound influence on the revolutionaries, whether he intended it or not.
Andres Bonifacio, despite initiating the revolution, was conspicuously absent from Aguinaldo's speech. This omission is attributed to the political rivalry between Aguinaldo and Bonifacio. Other heroes like Lapu-Lapu, the GOMBURZA, and Rizal were mentioned. The speaker draws a parallel to contemporary Philippine politics, where rivals' accomplishments are often ignored, noting this as a regrettable cultural trait.
The revolution, as described in Aguinaldo's speech, initially focused on eight provinces in Luzon (four in Southern Tagalog: Laguna, Batangas, Cavite, and Morong/Rizal province; and four in Central Luzon: Pampanga, Bulacan, Nueva Ecija, and Bataan/Tarlac). These provinces, symbolized by the rays of the sun on the Philippine flag, were where Katipunan chapters simultaneously attacked the Spanish in 1896. While other regions like Visayas and Mindanao joined later, the initial widespread rebellion was Luzon-centric. Mindanaons, particularly Muslims, had already been fighting the Spanish successfully for centuries, even without the Katipunan's influence.
Aguinaldo's speech served as an opportunity to present his version of events regarding the Biak-na-Bato deal. He portrayed his temporary retreat from the revolution as a strategic 'time out' or truce, during which he acquired arms and ammunition to continue the fight. The speech glorified the deal, framing it positively rather than as a negative act for the revolution.
The Philippine National Anthem has a long evolutionary history. It began as an instrumental piece played by the San Francisco de Malabon brass band. Spanish lyrics, titled 'Filipinas' and written by soldier-journalist Jose Palma (who served under General Luna), were added later in 1899. These lyrics, starting with 'Tierra Adorada,' were published in 'La Independencia' newspaper and perfectly fit the music. During the American period, an English version ('Land of the Morning') was adopted. It was only in 1956, under President Ramon Magsaysay, that the current Tagalog version, 'Lupang Hinirang,' was officially adopted.
Surprisingly, the video reveals that the red, white, and blue colors of the Philippine flag were chosen as a sign of gratitude and imitation of the American flag. This was Aguinaldo's idea, as he commissioned the flag's creation and designed its color scheme to honor the United States for their perceived help against Spain. While this fact, stemming directly from primary sources, is a revelation for many, the speaker notes that other symbols like the sun (representing national unity across all Filipinos) and the three stars (representing Luzon, Mindanao, and Panay/Visayas) hold positive meaning, despite the initial color inspiration. Luzon and Mindanao are correctly identified as the two largest islands, with Samar being the third, though Aguinaldo originally named Panay.
Aguinaldo is characterized as gullible for believing the Americans were allies who would grant independence after defeating the Spanish. He failed to foresee their colonial ambitions. His advisors, such as Apolinario Mabini and General Antonio Luna, warned him about American intentions, but Aguinaldo either didn't see the threat or failed to heed their advice. This led to the Filipino-American War, where the Philippines, with a smaller and less-equipped army, ultimately lost to the growing American forces. The speaker suggests that lessons should be learned from this past mistake.
Aguinaldo's proclamation speech contained several historical inaccuracies, such as mixing up figures like Magellan and Legazpi, and misnaming Lapu-Lapu as 'Kalipulako.' Despite these errors, the speaker acknowledges the speech's positive intent: to use history to unify the nation and instill pride in its roots, a valuable aspect of nation-building.