Naga City: For renowned historian Danilo Madrid Gerona, June 12, which commemorates the country's declaration of independence from Spain in 1898, will always have a special place in the hearts of the Bicolanos. This, despite the misconception that the region was indifferent to the nationalist sentiment of the time and therefore not part of the struggle for sovereignty under the colonial regime.
According to Philippines News Agency, Gerona noted that the Bicol Region was not included in the eight rays of the sun on the Philippine flag, which represented the first eight provinces that led the uprising against Spanish rule. He suggested that the region's socio-economic status, buoyed by a thriving abaca industry from 1865 to 1925, might have contributed to Bicol's later involvement in the independence movement. However, Gerona emphasized that Bicolanos' fervor for independence was undeniable, citing revolutionary activities in Camarines Norte and the efforts of figures like Gen. Ludovico Arejola and Gen. Simeon Ola.
The story of Bicolanos' contribution to the national struggle is further enriched by the perspectives of figures like Police Regional Office 5 Director Brig. Gen. Andre Dizon and youth leader Dylan Zinead Xiv Tanji. Dizon credited Bicolano leaders for their legacy of heroism, while Tanji highlighted the role of ordinary people in sustaining freedom. Both stressed the importance of recognizing the ongoing struggle for freedom and the everyday acts of patriotism.
Gerona also explored the evolving concept of independence, noting that early dictionaries did not include terms like "kalayaan" or "katalingkasan," which are now associated with nationalism. He explained that for ordinary Filipinos, freedom meant liberty from poverty and hardship, contrasting with the elite's focus on political freedom. Tanji echoed this sentiment, emphasizing that true freedom encompasses freedom from fear, hunger, corruption, and injustice.
As the nation marked the 127th anniversary of its independence, Gerona stressed the importance of collective memory and gratitude for ancestors' sacrifices. Celebrating Independence Day serves as a reminder to reflect on the past to appreciate present freedoms.
