Philippine Independence

Philippine Independence refers to the country's official release from direct control by a foreign power, specifically from Spain in 1898 and later from the United States in 1946. Initially, Filipinos sought self-rule through revolts and political efforts, culminating in the declaration of independence from Spain on June 12, 1898. Although Spain ceded the Philippines to the U.S. after the Spanish-American War, true sovereignty was delayed until the establishment of the Commonwealth in 1935, leading to full independence on July 4, 1946. This milestone marked the Philippines as a free, self-governing nation with its own government and identity.