True-blooded Caviteño Senator Ramon Bong Revilla Jr. led the celebration of the 126th anniversary of Philippine Independence on June 12 at the Dambana ni Emilio Aguinaldo in Kawit, Cavite. Revilla, who was the guest of honor for this year's commemoration of the country's freedom, spearheaded the wreath-laying rites at the tomb of President Emilio Aguinaldo and led the flag-raising ceremony at the shrine's iconic balcony.

In his speech, the statesman stressed that the heroism of the nation's forefathers who freed the Philippines from colonizers will never be forgotten.

"Even though a hundred years may pass, the great sacrifice of our ancestors will never be forgotten. And forever, we will consider it a debt of gratitude to those who broke the chains that imprisoned our motherland, to those who offered their blood and lives to achieve the prosperity, peace, and freedom we now enjoy," he voiced.

Revilla also highlighted the resilience and determination of Filipino people in facing challenges and upholding its independence.

"History bears witness to the paths we have taken, and it also stands as evidence that challenges are not new to us. But no matter the blows of fate, the Filipino race, forged by time, has remained unyielding. A nation that will never be defeated again. A nation that will repeatedly raise the flag symbolizing peace, independence, and justice. This is what we celebrate every year — the undying spirit of heroism and greatness," the solon declared.

At the core of his message, Revilla emphasized the importance of reminding Filipinos of the nation's past struggle for freedom in its continuous pursuit to protect and uphold its sovereignty. "This is the significance of this day: to remind our fellow countrymen, especially our youth, of the blood that flowed to achieve the aspirations and dreams of a nation that will never again be enslaved. Especially now, as the challenges to our sovereignty are still fresh in our memory. It is more crucial than ever for the spirit of heroism to blaze brightly, ready to deflect any spear that threatens our independence," Revilla stressed.

"With our united voice and efforts, no foreign invader desiring to desecrate and exploit our country will ever dominate again. No force can silence a nation that has discovered the resonance of its voice," he remarked.

In 1998, during the 100th year of Philippine independence, Senator Ramon Bong Revilla, Jr., then Cavite Governor, played the part of President Emilio Aguinaldo in the country's Centennial celebration.

The celebration of Philippine Independence Day is very significant in Kawit, Cavite, because it was there where Philippine independence from Spanish colonial rule was proclaimed by President Emilio Aguinaldo on June 12, 1898.

Apart from Kawit, Cavite, the 126th Independence Day will also be simultaneously celebrated in Rizal Park in Manila, Barasoain Church in Bulacan, Pinaglabanan Memorial Shrine in San Juan City, Mausoleo delos Veteranos dela Revolucion in Manila, Andres Bonifacio National Monument in Caloocan City, and Museo ng Kasaysayang Panlipunan ng Pilipinas in Pampanga.