Oh, June 12 is honestly a huge deal here because it's the official Independence Day in the Philippines. It's kind of like their version of the Fourth of July in the US. On that day back in 1898, the country declared independence from Spain, and it's a regular holiday so everyone gets the day off. But if I'm honest, from what I've seen and talking with friends, not everyone truly gets hyped about what it stands for anymore. A lot of people just see the June 12 holiday as a break to relax or travel, especially students. My grandpa gets all emotional about the flag raising and stuff, but us younger folks kind of just take the whole "history" part for granted. There are parades and things, but sometimes it feels like it's more about the day off than the politics or the "freedom" it's supposed to celebrate. Still, it definitely matters, especially with all the political stuff going on. It's one of those reminders for everyone that independence wasn’t just handed over. I just wish schools made it feel relevant instead of something from a dusty old history book. But the food and family time are pretty awesome! If you’re into history and politics though, it's got a lot of depth about national identity and real freedom.