IN PHOTOS: Nation holds various Independence Day celebration rites

MANILA, Philippines – Several commemorative rites were held in various historic areas on Sunday to celebrate the 118th anniversary of the proclamation of Philippine independence.

The commemorative rites were held in key cities nationwide which include Kawit, Cavite; Malolos, Bulacan; Rizal Park, Manila; Angeles, Pampanga; Davao City; Quezon City; and Cebu City, among others. This year’s theme is “Kalayaan 2016: Pagkakaisa, Pag-aambagan, Pagsulong.”

President Benigno Aquino III led the flag-raising ceremony and wreath-laying at the Rizal Park. He was also given military honors as he is set to step down as president on June 30.

Aquino was joined by Vice President Jejomar Binay, Manila Mayor Joseph Ejercito Estrada, National Historical Commission of the Philippines (NHCP) Chairperson Ma. Serena Diokno and his Cabinet members. The commemorative ceremony was capped off with a traditional flyby of aircraft of the Armed Forces of the Philippines.

The outgoing president also proceeded to the NHCP to lead the launching of a book titled: “A Sense of the Nation: The Birth Right of Rizal, Bonifacio and Mabini.”

Afterwards, Aquino delivered his final Independence Day Vin d’Honneur address and toast at the Rizal Hall in Malacañang Palace.

Meanwhile, Ombudsman Conchita Carpio-Morales was guest of honor at the Emilio Aguinaldo Shrine in Kawit, Cavite while Sen. Cynthia Villar and Chief Justice Ma. Lourdes Sereno led the celebrations at the Barasoain Church in Malolos and Quezon City, respectively.

The country celebrates the proclamation of Independence Day every June 12.

View the photos of the nationwide celebration of 118^th anniversary of Philippine Independence Day.

Text by Rosette Adel; Photos by Philstar.com/Efigenio Toledo IV; SC PIO/Released; AP/Bullit Marquez; PIA Gitnang Luzon/Released