Angeles City commemorated the 127th Philippine Independence Day on June 12, 2025, with a solemn ceremony held at the Museo ng Kasaysayang Panlipunan ng Pilipinas, honoring the enduring legacy of Filipino patriotism and the sacrifices of national heroes. The event, hosted by the city government, was part of the nationwide celebration of freedom.
The ceremony was led by Mayor Carmelo “Pogi” Lazatin, Jr. and Pampanga First District Representative Carmelo “Jon” Lazatin II, with Senator Loren Legarda serving as the guest of honor. In his address, Mayor Lazatin highlighted the significance of the day as a powerful reminder of the heroism that won the country’s independence. “Ang ating selebrasyon ay paggunita sa kabayanihan ng ating mga ninuno na buong tapang na lumaban para sa ating kasarinlan,” he said.
One of the event’s key historical highlights was the mention of a new finding by the National Historical Commission of the Philippines, which revealed that the first local celebration of Philippine Independence in Angeles City took place on June 12, 1899, at the Holy Rosary Church atrium, based on reports from La Independencia, the revolutionary newspaper founded by Gen. Antonio Luna.
Present during the commemoration were Vice Mayor Vicky Vega-Cabigting, members of the Sangguniang Panlungsod, and Department of Transportation Assistant Secretary for Right of Way IC Calaguas. Their attendance underscored the importance of collective remembrance and civic pride.
Also in attendance were Executive Assistant IV Reina Manuel, city department heads and officers-in-charge, along with representatives from the Department of Education and the National Museum of Social History of the Philippines, led by Curator Bettina Arriola. These institutions play an essential role in preserving and promoting Philippine history and culture.
The Kuliat Foundation Inc., known for its work in heritage preservation, and performers from the City College of Angeles’ Sayaw Angeleño Dance Troupe and the Angeles University Foundation Concert Chorus enriched the ceremony with cultural presentations. Their performances reflected the vibrancy and depth of Filipino identity.
The celebration ended with a call to all Angeleños to continue upholding the values of patriotism, unity, and service to the nation. Mayor Lazatin emphasized that beyond the festivities, Independence Day is a moment to renew one’s commitment to freedom, justice, and the betterment of the Filipino people.
