READING AND ANALYZING THE PROCLAMATION OF THE PHILIPPINE INDEPENDENCE | by VENTURA & MIDTANGGAL

Summary

The video discusses the proclamation of Philippine Independence, focusing on historical details from June 12, 1898, when Emilio Aguinaldo declared independence from Spain. The speaker highlights the timeline leading to independence, including key figures like Ambrosio Rianzares Bautista, who authored the declaration. The script delves into the abuses of the Spanish colonial regime, including the Civil Guard’s mistreatment of Filipinos, and the eventual American recognition of independence in 1946. The discussion concludes with an analysis of the Philippine flag's symbolism and its enduring legacy since the proclamation.

Takeaways

• 📜 The Philippine Independence was proclaimed on June 12, 1898, in Cavite, marking the end of 333 years of Spanish colonization.
• 🗓️ The United States did not recognize Philippine Independence until July 4, 1946, which was later changed to Filipino-American Friendship Day.
• ✍️ Ambrosio Rianzares Bautista, an advisor to Emilio Aguinaldo, wrote the official declaration of Philippine Independence.
• 📑 The declaration, a 2,000-word document, outlined the reasons behind the Filipino revolt against Spain and the formation of a new republic under Aguinaldo.
• ⚔️ The document highlights the abuses by Spanish authorities, including unjust arrests, violence by the Civil Guard, and the exploitation by clergy members.
• 🕊️ The Philippine flag, first flown on June 12, 1898, carries deep symbolic meaning, with the white triangle representing the Katipunan and the red and blue symbolizing courage and peace.
• ⚡ The revolution spread from Luzon to the Visayas, leading to the eventual liberation of the Philippines from Spanish rule.
• ⚖️ The proclamation acknowledged the unjust execution of national heroes like Jose Rizal and the Gomburza priests, symbolizing the long struggle for freedom.
• 🇺🇸 After the Treaty of Paris in 1898, Spain sold the Philippines to the United States for $20 million, which led to American colonization.
• 📚 The discussion encourages looking at primary historical documents for a more balanced understanding of the Philippine Revolution, rather than relying solely on government narratives.

Q & A

What is the main topic of the video script?

The main topic of the video script is the proclamation of Philippine Independence, its historical context, and the reading of the declaration that took place on June 12, 1898.

Who was the author of the Declaration of Philippine Independence?

The author of the Declaration of Philippine Independence was Ambrosio Rianzares Bautista, who served as an advisor to President Emilio Aguinaldo.

When did the Philippines officially gain recognition of its independence?

The Philippines officially gained recognition of its independence from the United States on July 4, 1946, although the declaration was initially made on June 12, 1898.

Why was the date of Philippine Independence Day reverted to June 12?

In 1961, President Diosdado Macapagal reverted Philippine Independence Day to June 12 to commemorate the original declaration of independence from Spain in 1898, instead of July 4, which had been recognized by the United States.

What role did the Guardia Civil play during the Spanish occupation according to the script?

The Guardia Civil were known for committing abuses, including unlawful arrests, harsh treatment, and even the shooting of prisoners, contributing to the oppression faced by Filipinos under Spanish rule.

What does the Philippine flag symbolize according to the proclamation?

The white triangle symbolizes the Katipunan revolutionary movement, while the blue represents peace and the red stands for courage. The colors of the flag were also influenced by the flag of the United States.

What is the significance of the Gomburza priests in Philippine history?

The Gomburza priests—Mariano Gomez, José Burgos, and Jacinto Zamora—were executed in 1872 after a failed uprising in Cavite. Their martyrdom inspired future revolutionary movements against Spanish colonization.

How did the Treaty of Paris impact the Philippines?

The Treaty of Paris, signed on December 10, 1898, ended the Spanish-American War and transferred control of the Philippines from Spain to the United States for $20 million, leading to the Philippines becoming a U.S. colony.

Why was there tension between Emilio Aguinaldo's forces and those of Andres Bonifacio?

Tensions between Emilio Aguinaldo's forces and Andres Bonifacio's Katipunan movement stemmed from power struggles within the revolutionary groups, as well as differences in their visions for the Philippines' independence.

What lesson does the script emphasize regarding the study of history?

The script emphasizes the importance of referring to primary sources when studying history to ensure accuracy and avoid bias, especially when discussing significant events like the Philippine Revolution and Independence.