PHL Marks 127th Anniversary of Bacoor Assembly Proclamation of Independence

BACOOR CITY, Cavite — The National Historical Commission of the Philippines (NHCP), in partnership with the local government of Bacoor, commemorated Thursday the 127th anniversary of the Araw ng Paglalathala at Pagtatanyag ng Kasarinlan ng Pilipinas (Day of the Proclamation and Promulgation of Philippine Independence), a lesser-known but historically significant event in the country’s struggle for nationhood.

The ceremony, held at the historic Cuenca House—also known as Bahay Tisa or the “First Malacañang”—was led by Senator Loren Legarda, who served as keynote speaker and led the flag-raising and wreath-laying rites. She was joined by Bacoor Mayor Strike B. Revilla, Vice Mayor Rowena Bautista Mendiola, Cavite Rep. Lani Mercado Revilla, NHCP Chairperson Regalado Trota Jose Jr., and National Commission for Culture and the Arts (NCCA) Chair Victorino Mapa Manalo.

The program featured the reading of the Acta Agosto Uno, the declaration issued during the Bacoor Assembly on August 1, 1898, dramatically delivered by award-winning actor John Arcilla. The event emphasized the historical importance of the assembly, where over 185 leaders from 16 provinces ratified the June 12 declaration of independence and expressed collective support for the emerging Filipino republic.

Although the June 12, 1898 declaration in Kawit, Cavite is more widely recognized, historians highlight the Bacoor Assembly as a vital moment that reflected the growing civic and provincial unity behind the independence movement. Led by President Emilio Aguinaldo and statesman Apolinario Mabini, the assembly demonstrated the transition of the revolutionary government from military to civilian authority and the active participation of Filipino leaders in state-building.

“This gathering is a tribute to our forebears’ courage and unity,” Legarda said in her remarks. “It reminds us that freedom was not simply declared; it was earned through shared vision, struggle, and sacrifice.”

The Cuenca House, which briefly served as Aguinaldo’s headquarters and the seat of the revolutionary government, provided a fitting venue for the commemorative event. Organizers said the celebration aims to reignite national pride and deepen public appreciation for Bacoor’s pivotal role in Philippine history.

The NHCP and Bacoor’s Culture, History, Arts and Tourism Office continue to promote historical awareness, with local officials urging Filipinos—especially the youth—to honor the country’s revolutionary legacy.

For updates and more information, the public is encouraged to follow the City Government of Bacoor’s official social media accounts.