Wagayway: Three stars and a sun

George P. Moya

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Wagayway: Three stars and a sun
Every May 28, Imus, Cavite celebrate the beginning of our most recognized symbol

CAVITE, Philippines — It has become a badge of Pinoy pride. Popularized by the late rapper Francis Magalona, the heraldic symbols of “three stars and a sun” have become a part of Philippine pop culture.

The first Philippine flag was unfurled in Imus 116 years ago, following the victory of Filipino revolutionaries against the Spanish forces in Kawit, Cavite, on May 28 – the commemorative date of the National Flag Day.

Fifteen days later, on June 12, 1898, General Emilio Aguinaldo proclaimed the Declaration of Philippine Independence.

Symbolim

The Sulpicio Guevara translation of Ambrosio Rianzares Bautista’s handwritten Declaration of the Philippine Independence of 1898 reads, “the three stars, signifying the three principal Islands of this Archipelago: Luzon, Mindanao, and Panay where this revolutionary movement started; the sun representing the gigantic steps made by the sons of the country along the path of Progress and Civilization.”

It wasn’t a year later, in 1899, that Panay Island was replaced by “Bisayas,” as the Philippine revolutionary propagandist Mariano Ponce reinterpreted the symbols on the flag.

He also wrote, “The sun represents progress, and sometimes means that the Philippine nation belongs to the Oriental family, like Japan, Korea, etc. who bear also one sun in their flags.”

On May 28, Imus—officially recognized as the flag capital of the country— will celebrate the 6th Wagayway Festival, to commemorate the historic waving of the Philippine flag.

This year’s week-long celebration includes a flag parade, street chant and dance competition, job fair, and re-enactment of the Battle of Alapan, where Gen. Emilio Aguinaldo won his first battle after returning from Singapore.

The original flag with 3 stars and a sun will again wave with the wind, flying at full mast, reminding Filipinos of their fight for freedom.

Rappler.com

 

George Moya is a Rappler contributor and photographer.

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