Google Doodle commemorates 121st anniversary of Philippine Independence

Google salutes the 121st Philippine Independence Day with a special doodle that features the Philippine flag.

On this day in 1898, the Philippines, an archipelago of more than 7,000 islands in the western Pacific Ocean named after Spanish King Philip II, finally claimed its freedom after over 300 years of colonial rule from Spain. To mark the historical event, a commemorative ceremony where the first flag raising is reenacted takes place each year in Kawit, Cavite, the province where the first reading of the Declaration of Independence was held.

The Philippine flag itself is a powerful symbol of the independence movement, with each of its colors carrying a significant meaning: blue represents truth and justice, red symbolizes patriotism, and white stands for equality. The three stars at the corner represent the three main regions of the Philippines – Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao. Meanwhile, the eight rays of the sun stands for the first eight provinces that went into battle against Spain.

During this holiday, numerous festive parades happen nationwide, including a police and military parade in the city of Manila. This specific event often culminates with a speech by the President, followed by a 21-gun salute.

This is the tenth time that Google has honored the Philippine Independence Day with a specially-designed doodle. Last year, Google Philippines joined the Filipino people in recognizing its 120th Independence Day with a doodle featuring the country’s rich marine life.