THE National Historical Commission of the Philippines (NHCP) spearheads the celebration of the 126th anniversary of Philippine Independence and Nationhood with the theme "Kalayaan. Kinabukasan. Kasaysayan." at Rizal Park, Luneta, Manila, on June 12 starting at 8 a.m. with a flag-raising ceremony led by President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. at the Independence flagpole, Jose Rizal Monument.

This will be followed by wreath-laying rites with the President, accompanied by NHCP Chairman Lisa Guerrero Nakpil and Armed Forces of the Philippines Chief of Staff Gen. Romeo Brawner Jr.

In the afternoon, the much-awaited Parada ng Kalayaan 2024 will start at 3 p.m., showcasing the historical events leading to Philippine independence. The first agencies established by the young Philippine Republic will be featured, along with their present-day agency counterparts.

Simultaneous flag-raising and wreath-laying ceremonies will be done at the Dambanang Emilio Aguinaldo in Cavite; Barasoain Church Historical Landmark in Malolos City, Bulacan; Pinaglabanan Memorial Shrine in San Juan City; Mausoleo de los Veteranos de la Revolucion in Manila North Cemetery; Andres Bonifacio National Monument in Caloocan City; and Museo ng Kasaysayang Panlipunan ng Pilipinas in Angeles City, Pampanga. Flag-raising rites will also be done in all 28 NHCP museums and local government units nationwide.

Burnham Green Activities in front of the Quirino Grandstand features fun events ranging from a chili-eating contest, music and dance concerts, a cooking show, an obstacle course, film showings, Kalye Kasaysayan, and Love Lokal Tiangge, a flea market showcasing local products.

NHCP is the national government agency mandated to promote Philippine history through its museums, research and publications and to preserve historical heritage through conservation and the marking of historic sites and structures.