CONGRESSMEN JAMES MOYLAN AND BOBBY SCOTT INTRODUCE A RESOLUTION RECOGNIZING PHILIPPINE INDEPENDENCE DAY
JUNE 12, 2024
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
CONGRESSMEN JAMES MOYLAN AND BOBBY SCOTT INTRODUCE A RESOLUTION RECOGNIZING PHILIPPINE INDEPENDENCE DAY
(Washington D.C.) As co-chairs of the U.S. Philippines Friendship Caucus, Congressmen James Moylan and Bobby Scott introduced H.Res.1290 - Recognizing June 12, 2024, as this year's observance of "Philippines Independence Day" and the 126th anniversary. While this resolution recognizes their resiliency and fight for freedom throughout history, it also reaffirms the United States relationship with the Philippines and commends our countries shared values and mutual defense.
As a founding member of the United Nations and member of many international global security organizations, the Philippines has been a bastion of freedom in the Pacific and a close friend of the United States. This resolution also honors the origins and continuation of the Philippines pursuit of values of freedom and international stability.
June 12th, the day Emilio Aguinaldo declared independence from Spain in 1898, represents more than just a free Philippines. It demonstrates to the world that an independent nation can withstand whatever challenges come its way. As China continues to encroach on sovereign nations in the Philippine Sea, we must stand with our allies and ensure that we do not allow appeasement to lead to greater conflict. U.S. support for our friends in the Philippines is paramount to securing the Indo-Pacific. With Philippine Independence Day this Wednesday, recognizing the plight of Philippines is the first step to securing the region. This resolution further serves as a testament to our two countries' commitment to each other and to regional security. Aggression against the Philippines is aggression against the United States of America and we will continue to support the Philippines and its interests.
Additionally, today allows us to celebrate the Philippines' warm and hospitable culture which encourages community members to take care of one another. This promotes a sense of unity in family dynamics, social interactions, and even in times of crisis or adversity. With millions of Filipino Americans living in the United States , may today serve as a reminder of the invaluable contributions Filipinos have woven into American history.
This resolution is co-led by Rep. James Moylan and Rep. Bobby Scott and is co-sponsored by Rep. Gregorio Kilili Camacho Sablan, Rep. Don Bacon, Rep. Juan Vargas, Rep. Ed Case, and Rep. Darrell Issa.
“On this special day, let us celebrate the bravery and resilience of the Filipino people who fought for their freedom and independence. May the spirit of patriotism continue to thrive in the hearts of every Filipino both in the United States and abroad. The Philippines has always been a loyal ally to the United States and a close friend of Guam. May we continue to grow our friendship, support each other in times of need, and remain strong in our commitment to one another.” said Rep. James Moylan (GU-00).
“As the only currently serving Member of Congress with Filipino ancestry, and as co-chair of the U.S.-Philippines Friendship Caucus, I am proud to co-lead this resolution. This resolution recognizes June 12th as Philippines Independence Day to honor the anniversary of the independence of the Philippines. I have the privilege of representing a rich and vibrant Filipino American community in Hampton Roads and I look forward to continuing our work to strengthen ties between the U.S. and the Philippines” said Rep. Bobby Scott (VA-03).
“I am very honored to join my colleagues to commemorate ‘Araw ng Kalayaan’, the declaration of Philippine independence in 1898 after three hundred years of Spanish rule. On the day of that declaration, the Philippine flag was unfurled for the first time,” said Rep. Ed Case (HI-01). “Since that historic day, that same flag has flown on special occasions such as this also in my Hawai‘i, where our truly pan-ethnic population includes the largest percentage of Filipino-Americans of any state or territory. This day is especially celebrated as a symbol of lasting pride in the country of their heritage and in our shared values of freedom and patriotism. Mabuhay!”
“I want to send my best wishes to everyone celebrating the 126th Philippine Independence Day here in the United States, in the Philippines, and around the world. Our two nations share significant and enduring ties. More than four million Filipinos and Filipino Americans call the United States home, and their contributions, histories, and culture are an integral part of the fabric of our nation. Today, we celebrate the bonds of friendship and cooperation between the United States and the Philippines and commit to strengthening them in the decades ahead. Happy Philippine Independence Day!” Said Rep. Juan Vargas (CA-52)