The Philippines celebrated the 155th birth anniversary of Emilio Aguinaldo, the nation’s first president, with a ceremony held at his ancestral home in Kawit, Cavite.

DILG Secretary Benhur Abalos led a wreath-laying ceremony at the Kawit Shrine, urging Filipinos to emulate Aguinaldo’s resilience in the face of challenges, as demonstrated in his battles against Spain and America.

“Let the life of Emilio Aguinaldo be a lesson that as long as you believe in what you are fighting for, do not fear. You can overcome any challenge,” said Abalos.

Abalos also called on Filipinos to stand firm in what is right, stating, “Even as times change, the heart of each one remains unchanged. In what is right, what is wrong. What should be done, what should not be done. What should be condemned and what should not be condemned.”

The anniversary was attended by notable figures including National Historical Commission of the Philippines Chair Emmanuel Calairo, Cavite Provincial Tourism and Cultural Affairs Office Head Elinia Imelda Rozel Sangalang representing Cavite Governor Jonvic Remulla, Cavite 1st District Congressman Jolo Revilla, Kawit Mayor Emilio Angelo Aguinaldo, and Cavite Board Member Ram Revilla.

Members of the Aguinaldo family, local government staff, DILG officials, Philippine National Police, and Philippine Navy personnel were also present to honor the legacy of the first president.