#Kalayaan2014: What is Philippine independence?

MANILA, Philippines – It has been 116 years since Filipinos waved the flag at Kawit, Cavite and proclaimed our independence as a sovereign nation. 

More than a simple holiday, Independence Day marks a significant moment in the country’s history when the Philippines finally stood on its own feet. 

However, some Filipinos argue that while the country is indeed independent from our past colonizers, the nation remains imprisoned – shackled by structural problems like poverty and corruption. 

This past year alone, we have witnessed a corruption scandal unfold where billions of pesos were allegedly siphoned from the national coffers. The money could have funded classrooms, farm-to-market roads, and bridges had it been spent properly by honest officials.

If independence means being free to make our own choices that determine our future, can we truly claim to be an independent nation? What holds us back? And what will help us move forward?

In time for Independence Day, MovePH, Rappler’s civic-engagement arm, jump-starts the conversation on the nation’s fight for genuine freedom.

Meet-ups

On June 12, different Mover-facilitated meet ups will take place in General Santos, Iloilo, and Metro Manila.  For those interested to participate, sign up here.

MovePH’s Raisa Serafica will be on board to moderate the discussion. 

In Metro Manila, Movers Gen Cruz and Derek Alviola will be joining us at the Rappler office in Ortigas to facilitate the conversation happening at 4pm (Philippine standard time). 

In Zamboanga, Mover Ariel Lalisan along with other volunteers will be facilitating the meet up in General Santos City. It will start at 11 am. 

Mover Adrienne Villaruel, along with other volunteers, will be facilitating the meet up in Moon Leaf Diversion Road Mandurriao, Iloilo City at 2 pm. 

For other Movers interested to join the discussion, you can still participate by posting your thoughts via the liveblog above.

You can also share your thoughts on Twitter using #Kalayaan2014. 

Join the discussion and tell us your thoughts! – Rappler.com