KAWIT, Cavite (PIA) — The National Historical Commission of the Philippines (NHCP) on Saturday held a ceremonial “March of Flags” at the NHCP Museum of Emilio Aguinaldo in the historic town of Kawit to start the 100-day countdown to the 125th Anniversary of Philippine Independence and Nationhood.

The parade, carrying the theme “Freedom, Future, History,” features national flags and the Philippine flag that will be used at the Independence Flagpole in Liwasang Rizal Luneta, Manila, on June 12, 2023.

NHCP Chairman Dr. Emmanuel Franco Calairo said that the event “is very important because this is a public awareness campaign for Filipinos to remember, enjoy, and learn a lesson about the nation’s history for the future of our country.”

“Importante na makita natin ang kahalagahan ng mga ginawa ng ating mga ninuno,” Calairo stressed.

Department of Budget and Management Secretary Amenah F. Pangandaman, who served as the event’s guest of honor, emphasized that the 100-day countdown “is an extensive campaign to remind our countrymen and to once again ignite the spirit of nationalism and patriotism in every Filipino.”

Citing the historical journey of the country’s independence, Pangandaman stressed that Filipinos should be proud that the Philippines was the first “Republic” in Asia.

Also launched on Saturday was a new arrangement of "Samot-Saring Iisa" by Kent Charcos, sung by Nyoy Volante, Michelle Bradford-Volante, Gian Magdangal, and Lara Maigue.

According to NHCP, the song will be the theme song of the festival that will last until 2026. (Ruel Francisco, PIA-Cavite)