PH Consulate General Commemorates National Flag Days at Historic Site Where Flag Was First Sewn

Philippine Consulate General and Sentro Rizal Hong Kong, together with the members of Knights of Rizal and Kababaihang Rizalista, jointly commemorated the National Flag Days from 28 May to 12 June 2024. (Hong Kong PCG Photo)

HONG KONG 05 June 2024 – The Philippine Consulate General and Sentro Rizal Hong Kong, together with the members of Knights of Rizal and Kababaihang Rizalista, jointly commemorated the National Flag Days from 28 May to 12 June 2024. The event was held on 30 May 2024 at Morrison Hill Playground in Wan Chai – the site where the Philippine flag was first sewn by Marcela Agoncillo, who was assisted by her daughter, Lorenza, and by the niece of Philippine national hero Dr. Jose P. Rizal, Delfina Herbosa de Natividad.

The program commenced with a wreath-laying ceremony led by Consul General Germinia V. Aguilar-Usudan, followed by the singing of the Philippine National Anthem and Pledge of Allegiance to the Philippine Flag. To further emphasize the significance of the occasion, Vice Consul Allan G. Revote recited an oral interpretation of the poem, “Katapusang Hibik ng Filipinas,” by Andres Bonifacio. 

In her remarks, Consul General Aguilar-Usudan emphasized the special significance of Hong Kong in the history of the Philippines, particularly in the country's journey towards independence. She noted that Hong Kong is not only a key destination for Filipino overseas workers, but also a place of historical significance, filled with fragments of the country's valiant past. The Consul General highlighted that Hong Kong played a crucial role in the struggle for Philippine independence, and this rich history continues to serve as a reminder of the sacrifices and bravery of our heroes. During the two-week commemoration, the Philippine flag and flaglets will be prominently displayed at the Consulate’s Public Area.

On 6 March 1965, Presidential Proclamation No. 374 was issued declaring the 28th of May of every year as National Flag Day to commemorate the date the national emblem was first unfurled after the Philippine Revolutionary Army defeated the Spanish forces in the Battle at Alapan in Imus, Cavite in 1898. On 23 May 1994, Executive Order No. 179 was issued extending the period of celebration of the National Flag Day from 28 May to 12 June of every year. END

Consul General Germinia V. Aguilar-Usudan leads the Philippine Consulate General personnel and members of the Filipino Community in the commemoration of the Philippine Flag Day at Morrison Hill Playground.  (Hong Kong PCG Photo)

Vice Consul Allan G. Revote recites the poem, “Katapusang Hibik ng Filipinas,” by Andres Bonifacio. (Hong Kong PCG Photo)

For more information, visit https://www.hongkongpcg.dfa.gov.ph or https://www.facebook.com/PHLinHK/.