A growing Filipino diaspora means plenty of celebration worldwide for Philippine Independence Day

By TERRY TANG
Associated Press

In the Philippines, where colonial rule under Spain and later the United States endured for nearly four centuries, June 12 is the real Independence Day. It marks the pivotal moment when the island nation first made a bold move for autonomy. The revelry Wednesday surrounding Philippine Independence Day stretches far beyond the Southeast Asia archipelago. Millions of Filipinos across the U.S., Europe, Australia and around the world will be able to find gatherings close to home. The occasion’s growing reach and inclusive ethos demonstrate how much the Filipino diaspora has asserted cultural pride and flourished around the globe.