8 RAYS OF THE GOLDEN SUN: 53IB Honors Philippine National Flag in Consonance with Independence Day

The National Flag Days, celebrated annually from May 28 to June 12 to commemorate the dates when the Philippine Revolutionary Army defeated the Spanish forces in the Battle at Alapan, Imus, Cavite in 1898.

It was originally held only on May 28 but was extended until June 12 in consonance with the Philippine Independence Day by virtue of Executive Order No. 179 on May 23, 1994. In the center of the white equilateral triangle is the golden sun with 8 rays and 3 five-pointed stars in each corner.

The 8 rays represent the first 8 provinces that courageously defied and revolted against the Spaniards – Manila, Cavite, Bulacan, Pampanga, Tarlac, Batangas, Laguna, and Nueva Ecija. The 53IB encourages everyone to display a Philippine flag in their house as a symbol of Filipino unity, love of country and national pride.

PHOTOS: Matapat Troopers honor the Philippine National Flag during their community engagement activities in the hinterlands of Purok Dos, Barangay Piwan, Midsalip, Zamboanga del Sur on May 3, 2020.