Celebrating June 12, 2025 in the Heart of the City
On June 12, 2025, Baguio City joined the nation in solemn tribute and festive commemoration of the 127th Philippine Independence Day, themed “Kalayaan, Kinabukasan, Kasaysayan”. The city hosted a powerful ceremony underscored by civic reflection, cultural performances, and city-wide community programs.
Flag‑Raising Ceremony & Civic Reflections
The celebration began with an orderly processional: the Baguio City Police Office led the Philippine flag’s entrance, followed by renditions of Lupang Hinirang, Bagong Pilipinas Hymn, Cordillera Hymn, and the Baguio Hymn, performed by the Saint Louis University Glee Club.
Prominent officials delivered stirring remarks:
- Former Congressman Mark Go reflected that freedom remains “an ongoing process,” reminding attendees that heroism and agency remain relevant today.
- Vice Mayor Faustino Olowan clarified the theme: freedom must shape our future with integrity, history as guide, hope as goal.
- Mayor Benjamin Magalong challenged citizens to defend independence not only from external threats but also from injustice and corruption—highlighting moral courage.
Cultural Performances: Music, Drama, Poetry
🎼 Saint Louis University Marching Band & Dance Troupe
We showcased stirring OPM (Original Pilipino Music) arrangements and inspired choreography by the SLU Dance Troupe.
🎭 Spoken‑Drama Highlights
- Bingo! by Mario Deles II delivered a dramatic monologue against a floral Philippine-flag backdrop.
- Watawat by Dave Adrian Ortiz used spoken poetry to weave identity and independence.
- The T anghalang SLU presented Babangon, Pilipinas!, dramatizing resilience in a postcolonial nation.
🎤 Vocal Finale
The SLU Glee Club led the spirited closing with the Baguio March, rallying civic pride.
City‑wide Activities: Exhibits, Fairs & Quiz Bees
🖼️ Exhibitions at Baguio Country Club (June 9–12)
In collaboration with local artists, three distinct exhibits opened at the Ambassador Francisco V. del Rosario Hall:
- “80 and Still Free”: A photo-installation by Sam Gallardo and Ramon David, juxtaposing WWII images with modern-day Baguio—highlighting transformation and resilience.
- Narda’s Handwoven Arts & Crafts weaving showcase
- Curated art gallery featuring works by Harold Banario, Aquino Lopez, and Ben Abiano
All exhibits emphasized heritage and local artistry, open free to the public from June 9–12.
🎯 Kalayaan 2025 Job Fair at SM City Baguio
Held concurrently at the SM City Baguio complex, the Job Fair aimed to engage youth and professionals in civic opportunities and employment.
🎸 Kalayaan Jam at Malcolm Square
An open-air “Jam Session” fostered community unity through music, freely welcoming Baguio residents to participate.
🧠 Independence Day Quiz Bee at Baguio Country Club
Trivia and multidisciplinary quiz teams competed, enriching awareness of Philippine history and civic values.
Conclusion: Embodying Freedom in Present Actions
Through thoughtful programming and multi-sector collaboration, Baguio City’s 127th Independence Day commemoration became a profound dialogue between past sacrifices and future responsibilities. We emphasized that true independence endures when citizens choose courage, accountability, and unity in every sphere—from public service to personal conduct.
Our collective aspiration: to live not just for flags, but for the spirit behind them—freedom lived daily in thought, word, and deed.
