happy 111th independence day

happy 111th independence day my dear country - Philippines!

The Philippine Declaration of Independence occurred on June 12, 1898 in the Philippines, where Filipino revolutionary forces under General Emilio Aguinaldo (later to become the Philippines' first Republican President) proclaimed the sovereignty and independence of the Philippine Islands from the colonial rule of Spain after the latter was defeated at the Battle of Manila Bay during the Spanish-American War.  (source: wikipedia)

Note: Photo taken inside the Rizal Shrine in Fort Santiago, saw the guard goofing around with his colleague and asked him to do the same pose again, after a few request, the guard willign obliged and posed again hence the "shoot out: stance :)

independence day

The Philippines is celebrating its 109 years of independence from Spain today, so it is only fitting that I post Lapulapu’s monument (Statue of the Sentinel of Freedom) on this special day.

Lapu Lapu is known as the leader who defeated the Spanish conquistador, Ferdinand Magellan in April 1521, becoming the first Filipino hero. The 50-feet tall bronze statue depicts Lapu Lapu, not in battle, but standing guard, holding his kampilan (concealed in its scabbard) firmly planted on the ground. His face conveys strength and determination, but with kindness and a stance that exudes power and vigilance. The statue is located at Agrafina Circle, Luneta (what used to be the skating rink), just in front of the Department of Tourism Building.