The Philippines proclaimed its independence from Spain during a ceremony led by General Emilio Aguinaldo in Kawit, Cavite. This proclamation followed a series of skirmishes and victories in the Philippine Revolution, where Filipinos fiercely fought for their right to self-determination and freedom from Spanish colonial rule. Amidst a backdrop of increasing discontent with Spanish governance, which included issues such as heavy taxation, forced labor, and religious imposition, the revolutionary movement gained momentum throughout the islands. Aguinaldo, a key figure in the revolution, returned from exile in Hong Kong to lead the fight against Spain, rallying support from fellow revolutionaries and the populace.During the declaration ceremony, Aguinaldo revealed the flag of the Philippines, designed by himself, which features a blue field representing peace, a red field symbolizing bravery, and white for purity and peace. The event culminated in the playing of the national anthem, which was composed by Julian Felipe. This momentous occasion was marked by speeches, patriotic songs, and the enthusiasm of revolutionaries and supporters. The declaration of independence signified not just the end of over 300 years of colonization but also the emergence of national identity among Filipinos.Despite the joyous celebrations, the struggle for true independence continued. The United States had its own interests in the region, leading to the Philippine-American War, as tensions arose over the transfer of power from Spain to the U.S. Rather than achieving the complete autonomy they sought, Filipinos found themselves embroiled in a new conflict, casting a shadow over the celebration of independence until the establishment of the commonwealth decades later.