Why the Philippines? The Philippines is a staunch ally of the United States in the Far East, in fact it was the Americans who liberated it from the Spanish conquistadors in the 18th century. So, it was basically an American colony, until the country was granted independence by the American Congress right after the Second World War.
The first Commonwealth government of the Philippines has legislated that Independence Day rites for the Islands must fall on the 4th of July to coincide with the American celebration. But it was moved during the 60's to June 12th to commemorate the declaration of the first republic. And July 12 is now celebrated as American Friendship Day, a fitting tribute to the American influence that pervades local society even to this day.
Even before the Americans came to the Islands, the Philippines had already an existing flag. It carries three basic colors, red, white and blue with a golden sun placed at the center of the white triangle and on each angle is added three stars representing the three distinct island groupings - Luzon, Visayas and Mindanao.
During the sojourn of the Americans to the country, the
Philippine Flag flew side by side with the American tricolor. Due to the American influence, the country is literate as everybody read and write, understands English while a large majority can speak fluently making it the second language.
General Douglas McArthur together with his aide-de-camp Colonel Dwight Eisenhower came to the Philippines to help in the development of the Philippines. Later when the 2nd World War broke out, General McArthur left only after the famous assurance "I shall return" was made, and return he did with a bang.
by:
The Flagman
