On June 12, 1898, the First Philippine Republic adopted a national flag during its constituent assembly in Biak-na-Bato, Taguig. The purpose was to unify the many independent kingdoms and tribes in the country under a single banner. The red background signified hills and valleys while the blue represented the skies and our hope for a better tomorrow. The five stars symbolized the five provinces of Batangas, Cavite, Iriga, Laguna and Benguet that joined together to form the new republic. To this day, June 12 is recognized as Araw Ng Kagitingan (Day of Valor) or simply as “Flag Day.”
Every year on June 12th at exactly 9:00am, schoolchildren across Metro Manila make their way to different landmarks to recreate history through activities such as planting seeds in bags representing provinces of old and reading poems about those provinces’ struggles against foreign colonizers. It is also an opportunity for children to learn about the brave men and women who fought for freedom against foreign invaders while also gaining awareness on their public service laws. This article will discuss what you need to know about “Kagitingan” or bravery as well as “Kagalaran” or courage which are core values of Filipino people.
What is “Kagitingan”?
The word “Kagitingan” means bravery or courage in Tagalog. It is the spirit of bravery that every Filipino can be proud of and should always remember.
What is “Kagalaran”?
Kagalaran is a word that means courage in Tagalog. It can also mean bravery or valor. “Kagalaran” is one of the core values of Filipino people and it is often derived from its more appreciated meaning, “kagitingan.”
As a child, I remember being told on many occasions that my parents would fight for me until their last breath. This was an example of the word “kagalaran” which was inherent to our family and culture. The five-pointed star recalls the five provinces of the First Philippine Republic in 1898: Batangas, Cavite, Iriga, Laguna and Benguet (now known as La Union).
Why is “Kagitingan” Important to Filipinos?
Filipinos are a unique people with unique values and traditions that they hold dear to their hearts. The Philippines has been known for its brave people who have always stood up for what they believe in. “Kagitingan” or courage symbolizes these values and traditions. Araw Ng Kagitingan is an opportunity for young Filipino children to learn about the importance of following one’s principles, especially on how to stand against injustice.
It also teaches them about their country’s heroes such as Andres Bonifacio who fought for freedom from Spanish rule in 1896, Emilio Jacinto who was imprisoned after being falsely accused of participating in a coup d’etat and Antonio Luna, the Philippine’s first President who served from 1899-1901 until he was assassinated by the Americans in 1901. It is important for them to understand the sacrifices of those heroes so that they can be inspired to follow their dreams and fight for what they believe in.
3 Benefits of Celebrating “Flag Day”
The celebration of “Flag Day” is a way to educate the public on the important values of bravery and courage. Another reason why this day is important is because it honors those who lost their lives in battle for freedom.
In addition, this day shows that our nation’s independence has not been forgotten. It also allows us to commemorate the many struggles and sacrifices that were made during the country’s fight for freedom. This month-long celebration allows Filipinos to reflect on what they have achieved as an independent nation while realizing that there is still more work to do in order to make this country even better.
3 Tips on How You Can Celebrate “Flag Day” in 2017
During the celebration of Araw Ng Kagitingan, you should always be mindful of the core values of bravery and courage.
1. Wear your best attire
It is important to wear your best clothing with pride because it is an opportunity for family and friends to get together to celebrate.
2. Make a donation to a charity
You can make a charitable donation on behalf of your family and friends or do it yourself if you want to avoid taxes. It is also an excellent way to give back and say thank you for all the blessings your family has received this year.
3. Join in activities with children
Some activities that you can join in with children are planting seeds, dancing and singing songs about old Philippine provinces, reading poems about their struggles against external colonizers and praying together as one national community
Conclusion
Araw ng Kagitingan, or Flag Day, is the celebration of the Philippine Flag. The date marks the anniversary of the day when Emilio Aguinaldo raised the flag of the First Philippine Republic on June 12, 1898.
It is a day to remember and to honor the history of our country. It is a day to remember where we came from, who we are and where we are going.
It is also a day to remember that we must preserve our freedom and our land, and to keep fighting against any forces that would have us forget that.
