Romualdez on聽Independence Day: House to uphold PH democracy聽
House Speaker Ferdinand Martin Romualdez. File photo
MANILA, Philippines — House Speaker Ferdinand Martin Romualdez assured Filipinos that the chamber will continue to uphold democracy and protect citizens’ rights through meaningful legislation, as the country marks the 127th anniversary of its independence.
In his Independence Day statement on Thursday, Romualdez said the House has backed reforms promoting transparency and accountability to honor the struggle of the nation’s forebears.
“The House of Representatives joins the entire nation in reaffirming our collective duty to preserve the ideals of our forebears. Through laws that uphold democracy, defend the rights of every citizen, and enable inclusive development, we continue the work they began more than a century ago,” he said.
“In support of the Bagong Pilipinas vision, we pursue reforms grounded in transparency, accountability and service. We believe that true independence means giving our people not only the liberty to dream, but also the tools to achieve those dreams,” he added.
19th Congress legislative achievements
During his closing speech at the end of the 19th Congress’ session on Wednesday, Romualdez highlighted the House’s accomplishments, including efforts to promote accountability and transparency.
Under the 19th Congress, several laws safeguarding national patrimony and sovereignty, such as the Philippine Maritime Zones Act and the Philippine Archipelagic Sea Lanes Act, were also enacted.
READ: House ratifies final version of Archipelagic Sea Lanes bill
Under Republic Act No. 12064, or the Philippine Maritime Zones Act, the Philippines’ maritime zones are defined in accordance with international laws and treaties. These include internal waters, archipelagic waters, a 22.22-kilometer (12-nautical-mile) territorial sea, a 44.45-kilometer (24-nautical-mile) contiguous zone from the baseline, a 370-kilometer (200-nautical-mile) exclusive economic zone (EEZ), and the continental shelf.
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Call to remember heroes
Romualdez urged Filipinos not only to remember the contributions of heroes who resisted foreign rule, but also to ensure that freedom is preserved for future generations.
“As we commemorate the 127th anniversary of Philippine Independence, we honor the extraordinary courage of the men and women who stood against colonial rule and fought for our right to live in freedom and dignity. Their bravery laid the foundation for the sovereign and democratic nation we uphold today,” he said.
“Independence Day is not only a remembrance of our past. It is a call to strengthen our present and secure our future. It reminds us that freedom must be protected, nurtured, and used to uplift the lives of every Filipino. Let this day inspire us to stand united, to act with purpose, and to serve with integrity. The spirit of our heroes lives on in every effort to build a nation that is free, just, and strong,” he added.
Historical context of June 12
Philippine Independence was declared on June 12, 1898, when revolutionary leader General Emilio Aguinaldo proclaimed freedom from Spanish rule, which had lasted for over 300 years.
READ: The row, rebrandings behind Independence Day
The Philippine flag was then waved from the porch of the Aguinaldo residence in Kawit, Cavite, as the Banda San Francisco de Malabon played the national anthem Lupang Hinirang, then known as the Marcha Nacional Filipina./mcm
