126th Independence Day parade winners feted by Marcos

President Ferdinand "Bongbong" Marcos Jr. recognized the winners of the Float Design and Festival Performance Competitions during the 126th Independence Day celebration held last month.

Speaking at a ceremony in Malacañang Palace as part of the 126th Independence Day celebration, the President praised the participants’ creativity, describing their work as a powerful expression of the nation's heritage, values, and collective aspirations.

“Your creativity, passion, the spirit that brings depth and meaning to who we are as a nation — kaya’t saludo ako sa inyong lahat,” Marcos said.

The 12 June Parada highlighted the diverse cultures of Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao, with floats and performances depicting key moments in the Philippine Revolution and regional celebrations.

The Tultugan Festival of Maasin, Iloilo was declared champion of the Festival Performance Competition, followed by the Dinagyang Festival by the Iloilo Festival Foundation and Iloilo City in second place, and the Maytime Festival of Antipolo City, performed by the Maharlika Dance Troupe of San Jose National High School, in third.

In the Float Design Competition, Candon, Ilocos Sur took first place with its entry Ikkis ti Candon. In contrast, Iloilo Province placed second with the Cry of Santa Barbara, and Bago, Negros Occidental secured third place with the Cinco de Noviembre Revolt.

Marcos also extended his gratitude to the artists, designers, dancers, float makers, organizers, and support crews who helped bring the grand celebration to life.

He then encouraged Filipinos to keep the spirit of Independence Day alive in everyday life.

“Because we are not just preserving our culture when we do this. We preserve it for the next generation. But more so, we are living our culture. We are living it — proudly, joyfully, and meaningfully,” he said.

Calling on citizens to embody the courage and dedication of past heroes, Marcos added: “Let us prove that we are the heirs of our ancestors' bravery, wisdom, and compassion. We are the Bagong Pilipino — disciplined, skilled, and committed to building a better future for our nation.”