by Jeruel Ibañez

Adventist University of the Philippines (AUP) commemorated the 128th Philippine Independence Day on June 12, 2026. Philippine flags were around the campus and at the venue during the event, which carried the theme “Kalayaan, Kinabukasan, Kasaysayan: Isang Pagpupugay” (Freedom, Future, History).

Carrying the theme “Kalayaan, Kinabukasan, Kasaysayan: Isang Pagpupugay” (Freedom, Future, History), the program brought together students, faculty, staff, and administrators in a festive observance of the country’s hard-earned freedom and enduring national identity.

Activities began with a formation followed by the entrance of colors led by selected Masterguide students. Participants then sang the Philippine National Anthem under the leadership of Kristine Mendoza, a Music Department faculty member, before an opening prayer offered by Allaine Jae Ines, a History Department faculty member.

In his welcome remarks, Dr. Michael Naidas, College of Arts and Humanities (CAH) dean, encouraged the AUP community to remember the sacrifices of the nation’s heroes and embrace their responsibility as citizens committed to nation-building.

A key highlight of the event was the Panunumpa sa Watawat ng Pilipinas, led by Rex Dominic Perico, Central Student Council president. The pledge reaffirmed participants’ commitment to the values and ideals represented by the Philippine flag.

Cultural presentations added color and emotion to the celebration. A moving recitation entitled “Poem for the Youth” was delivered by Nicole Fortu, a History student, emphasizing the vital role of young Filipinos in shaping the nation’s future. Patriotic musical numbers were performed by Allyzah Chloe Bacus and Czarina Kate Bacus, while another heartfelt solo rendition of Ang Bayan Kong Pilipinas featured Mr. Joseph Ledesma, former History Department professor, and Mr. Nimrod Salazar, former College of Teacher Education professor, who accompanied the performance on guitar.

The celebration reached its pinnacle during the message of hope delivered by Dr. Arceli Rosario, AUP president. Speaking entirely in Filipino, Dr. Rosario underscored the importance of preserving the nation’s history, cherishing freedom not only from slavery but also from sin, and cultivating a generation of Filipinos guided by integrity, faith, and service. “Ang kalayaan ay isa sa pinakamahalagang biyayang tinatamasa natin ngayon. Hindi ito basta ipinagkaloob; ito ay bunga ng sakripisyo, tapang, at pagkakaisa ng ating mga ninuno. (Freedom is one of the most precious blessings we enjoy today. It was not simply granted; it is the result of the sacrifice, courage, and unity of our ancestors.”

Her address resonated deeply with the audience as she emphasized that true patriotism is demonstrated not only through words but also through responsible citizenship and dedication to the common good. “Ngunit ang paggunita sa kalayaan at kasaysayan ay hindi nagtatapos sa pag-alala lamang. Ito ay may kaugnayan din sa ating kinabukasan. Ang kinabukasan ng Pilipinas ay nasa kamay ng bawat mamamayan, lalo na ng kabataan. Ang tunay na pagpupugay sa ating mga bayani ay makikita sa ating mga gawa—sa pagiging responsable, makabayan, masipag, at may malasakit sa kapwa. Sa pamamagitan ng edukasyon, integridad, at pagkakaisa, maipagpapatuloy natin ang kanilang nasimulan. (But commemorating freedom and history does not end with just remembering. It is also related to our future. The future of the Philippines is in the hands of every citizen, especially the youth. True tribute to our heroes is seen in our actions—by being responsible, patriotic, hardworking, and caring for others. Through education, integrity, and unity, we can continue what they started.)”

Adding excitement to the occasion, participants took part in a Historical Trivia Quiz that tested their knowledge of Philippine history and awarded prizes to the winners.

Closing remarks were delivered by Dr. Jesse Soncayawon, the History Department chair, who thanked the participants and organizers for making the celebration meaningful and memorable. A closing prayer was offered by Dr. Feliciano Ytang, History faculty member.

Hosting duties were handled by Mr. Paul Villacarlos, a History student, and Mr. Jeruel Ibañez, a History faculty member, while Mr. Jonathan Perdido, a History faculty member, served as the program coordinator. After the ceremony, attendees enjoyed refreshments featuring soy milk and traditional Filipino delicacies.

Through songs, reflections, historical remembrance, and expressions of national pride, the AUP community honored the legacy of Philippine independence while reaffirming its commitment to helping build a better future for the nation.