Jun 12, 2022
Philippines Independence Day 2022
This Doodle’s Key Themes
On this day in 1898, the Philippines declared independence after more than 300 years under Spanish rule. Every June 12th, Filipinos celebrate their freedom by flying their national flag high in the sky, just like the one waving in today’s Doodle.
While there were many who fought for Filipino independence, there are a few people who are honored and remembered as heros for their contributions in securing the country’s independence. José Rizal was a key member of the Filipino Propaganda Movement and inspired a wave of nationalism through his writings. Andrés Bonifacio, “The Father of the Philippine Revolution”, formed a secret society called the Katipunan and led a number of successful campaigns against the Spanish. General Emilio Aguinaldo was another notable figure who fought alongside the United States during the Spanish-American War. It was he who, on June 12, proclaimed the Philippine Republic as an independent country, demanding a “dignified place in the concert of free nations.”
Alongside celebrating the heroes mentioned above, Filipinos also attend parades, speeches and a 21-gun salute in the capital city of Manila. The national anthem is sung far and wide throughout the archipelago, and people usually enjoy the day off at parks and malls. It wouldn’t be a holiday without some famous foods like kare-kare (oxtail and vegetable stew topped with thick peanut sauce) and halo-halo (shaved ice sundae).
Happy Araw ng Kasarinlán, or Independence Day, to the Philippines!
Where this Doodle appeared
Discover more Doodles by color
Did you know?
The very first Doodle launched as an “out of office” message of sorts when company founders Larry and Sergey went on vacation.
Learn MoreDid you know?
The first Doodle launched in 1998, before Google was officially incorporated.
Learn MoreDid you know?
The first same day Doodle was created in 2009 when water was discovered on the moon.
Learn MoreDid you know?
Doodle for Google student contest winners have gone on to become professional artists
Learn MoreDid you know?
The time it takes from sketch to launch for a Doodle varies widely: some have taken years and others just a few hours!
Learn MoreDid you know?
Hundreds of Doodles launch around the world every year. Often, several different ones are live in different places at the same time!
Learn MoreDid you know?
Our most frequently recurring Doodle character is Momo the Cat - named after a real-life team pet!
Learn More