Citing their creativity, passion, and spirit that define the nation’s soul, President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. on Thursday honored the winners of the Float Design and Festival Performance Competitions during the celebration of the 126th Independence Day.
In his speech, President Marcos acknowledged the extraordinary creativity displayed by the participants, which he said reflects the country’s origins, beliefs, and collective aspirations.
The June 12 Parada ng Kalayaan 2025 showcased vibrant cultural dances and floats that represented the diverse traditions of Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao and depicted key historical moments during the Philippine Revolution.
“Your creativity, passion, the spirit that brings depth and meaning to who we are as a nation. Kaya’t saludo ako sa inyong lahat,” the President said.
President Marcos presented the awards in a ceremony at the Malacañan Palace.
Declared champion of the Festival Performance Competition was Maasin, Iloilo Province’s Tultugan Festival. Second place went to the Dinagyang Festival organized by the Iloilo Festival Foundation, Inc. and Iloilo City.
Meanwhile, the Maytime Festival of Antipolo City performed by the Maharlika Dance Troupe of San Jose National High School garnered third place.
For the Float Design Competition, Candon, Ilocos Sur won first place for Ikkis ti Candon. Iloilo province’s Cry of Santa Barbara secured second place while Bago, Negros Occidental’s Cinco de Noviembre Revolt won third place.
President Marcos expressed deep appreciation for the contributions of artists, designers, dancers, organizers, as well as support staff, float makers, and cleanup crews in making the event successful.
The President hopes that the participants never lose their spark in joining such kinds of festivities.
“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, and joyfully, and meaningfully,” President Marcos said.
The President also called on all Filipinos to embody the spirit of Independence Day in their daily lives.
“Ipakita natin na tayo ang tagapagmana ng tapang, talino, at malasakit ng ating mga ninuno. Tayo ang mga Bagong Pilipino—katulad nila, may disiplina, may husay, at may paninindigang ipaglaban ang kinabukasan ng ating Inang Bayan,” the President said. | PND
