By JOSEPH G. LARIOSA

(© 2011 Journal Group Link International)

Chicago’s Filipino-American Community Marks Philippine Independence with Multiple Events

C HICAGO (jGLi) – A resolution has been introduced in the United States House of Representatives, “honoring the 113th anniversary of the independence of the Philippines,” which falls on Sunday, June 12.

Representative Laura Richardson (Dem.-CA-37) has introduced House Resolution 275 “Honoring the 113th Anniversary of the Independence of the Philippines” as the House “recognizes the historic significance of the 113th anniversary of the sovereign and independent country of the Philippines on June 12, 1898.”

Aside from Ms. Richardson, the other members of the House who co-sponsored the resolution were Representatives Steve Austria (Rep.-OH-7th), Madeleine Bordallo (Dem.-Guam-At-Large), Eni F. H. Faleomavaega (Dem.-American Samoa-At-Large), Colleen Hanabusa (Dem.-Hawaii-1st), Al Green (Dem.-Texas-9th), Sheila Jackson Lee (Dem.-Texas-18th), Jackie Speier (Dem.-Cal.-12th), Bob Filner (Dem.-Cal.-51st) and Sam Farr (Dem.-Cal.-17th).

The resolution introduced last May 24, 2011, was referred to the Committees on Foreign Affairs and Armed Services “for a period to be subsequently determined by the Speaker, in each case for consideration of such provisions fall within the jurisdiction of the committee concerned.”

The resolution says, it “Reaffirms the bonds of friendship and cooperation which have existed between the United States and the Philippines and commits to strengthening those bonds;

“Commends the people of the Philippines for enduring through struggle and hardship;

“Reaffirms its support for the Philippines to defend its internal security from terrorism;

“Reaffirms its enduring support for the Philippines;

“Supports increased public awareness of the events surrounding the Philippine Declaration of Independence, and the vibrant and beautiful culture of the Philippines;

“Recognizes the courage and bravery of the Filipino and Filipino-American servicemen and servicewomen who have fought alongside with the United States Armed Forces; and

“Supports the continuing development of the Filipino American community as a integral part of America's cultural fabric.”

Philippine Independence Events in Chicago

M eanwhile, in commemoration of the 113th Anniversary of Philippine Independence, the Philippine Consulate General in Chicago hosted the members of the Filipino-American community to participate in the flag-raising ceremony held at the Daley Plaza in downtown Chicago (W. Washington and N. Clark Streets) yesterday, Friday, 10 June 2011 at 9:00 a.m.

Conducted once a year, the raising and flying of the huge Philippine flag over the City of Chicago marked the anniversary of Philippine Independence. They continue to be a source of great pride for the Filipino-American community.

The theme for this year's Independence Day celebration is: “Kalayaan: Paninindigan ng Bayan." (Freedom: Basis of Strength of the People).

Meanwhile, in a pre-Independence activity, former President Fidel V. Ramos paid tribute to the upcoming 150th birth anniversary of Philippine national hero Dr. Jose Rizal on June 19 by laying flowers at the Rizal monument along scenic Lakeshore Drive in Chicago last May 27.

It was Mr. Ramos’ first visit to the monument of Rizal since he led the unveiling of the monument that coincided with the 100th Philippine Centennial in 1998.

Meanwhile, various Filipino community organizations have lined up different Independence activities this coming week. Activities include parade, motorcade, dinners, picnics and variety of entertainment events. # # #

Editor’s Note: To contact the author, please e-mail him at: (lariosa_jos@sbcglobal.net)