Marcos leads 126th Independence Day rites at Rizal Park

MANILA, Philippines — President Ferdinand “Bongbong” R. Marcos Jr. on Wednesday morning laid a wreath before the monument of national hero Dr. Jose P. Rizal at Rizal Park in Manila as the country commemorated the 126th anniversary of Philippine independence.

The wreath-laying and flag-raising ceremony marked Marcos’ first Independence Day event.

This is also the first time Marcos has publicly recited the Bagong Pilipinas Hymn and Pledge since his memorandum circular on Sunday, where he directed all government agencies, local government units, and educational institutions to integrate its recital during flag ceremonies.