Felize Ann Mei B.

Villareal
BSHM 1B Readings in Philippine History

The "Declaration of Philippine Independence" is a significant historical document that

represents how the Filipino revolutionary forces led by General Emilio Aguinaldo declared
the Philippines' sovereignty and autonomy from Spanish colonial control. The agreement
was signed on June 12, 1898, which marked the end of Spain's 300-year colonial rule in the
Philippines. This declaration was a turning point in Philippine history as it allowed the country
to establish its government and assert its independence as a nation.

Emilio Aguinaldo was a key figure in the Philippine struggle against Spanish
domination. He appears prominently in the Declaration of Independence of 1898 as the
leader of the revolutionary troops. The document depicts Aguinaldo as a symbol of Filipino
aspirations of liberty and self-government. His leadership was important in uniting the
Filipino people in their struggles for independence. Aguinaldo is considered a national hero
in the Philippines for his leadership and contribution to the fight for independence from
foreign rule.

The Declaration of Independence illustrates Filipinos' desire for complete

independence and sovereignty despite gratitude towards the United States for their aid in
defeating Spanish colonialism. The document expresses cautious confidence about the
American government's intentions and a commitment to protecting Filipino interests and
rights. However, it is vital to remember that the relationship between Filipinos and Americans
evolved throughout time and eventually led to war, culminating in the Philippine-American
War.

The Declaration of Independence of 1898 holds immense significance in history as it

commemorates the Filipino people's difficult battle for self-rule and liberation from the
oppressive Spanish colonial government. This proclamation marked the end of Spanish
colonial control and the start of Filipino sovereignty. The document, which was signed by
notable Filipino revolutionaries such as Emilio Aguinaldo, represented the people's
aspirations for self-determination and their unwavering desire to achieve them. Today, the
1898 Declaration of Independence is recognized as an important national symbol that
represents the Philippines' rich history and people's determination.

References:

A history of Philippine Independence Day. (2023, September 12). LSE Southeast Asia Blog.
https://blogs.lse.ac.uk/seac/2023/09/12/a-history-of-philippine-independence-day/#:~:text=In
%201898%2C%20General%20Emilio%20Aguinaldo,Republic%20under%20the%20Malolos
%20Constitution.

Ileto, R. C. (2021). The Road to 1898: on American Empire and the Philippine Revolution.
Journal of Imperial and Commonwealth History/Journal of Imperial and Commonwealth
History, 49(3), 505–526. https://doi.org/10.1080/03086534.2021.1920804