Cavite marks Aguinaldo day

CAVITE, Philippine — Local officials are celebrating the 142nd birth anniversary of Gen. Emilio Aguinaldo on March 22 with the simple traditional ceremonies at the historic Aguinaldo Shrine in Kawit, Cavite.

Aguinaldo was the first and youngest president of the Philippines and one of the heroes who fought in the revolution against Spain and Philippine-American War at the turn of the 20th Century.

President Aquino has declared March 22 as a special non-working holiday in Cavite to give the officials and residents of the province the full opportunity to celebrate the birth anniversary of the late General.

The holiday announcement was contained under Proclamation No. 123 that was signed by Executive Secretary Paquito N. Ochoa Jr. last March 10.

Aguinaldo, who was called “Heneral Miong” during his prime, became president in 1898 at the age of 29.

He was also known as "Caesar of the Philippines," “The Arm of Divine Providence," and "Liberator of the Filipino People" for his staunch struggle and revolution accomplishments which freed the people in Cavite and elsewhere in the country particularly against the Spanish colonial force.

The late General is the seventh of eight children of Carlos Aguinaldo and Trinidad Famy. He was born on March 22, 1869 in Cavite Viejo (now Kawit).

Kawit is known as the birthplace of Philippine Independence and Cavite province the cradle of the revolution. (report from Anthony Giron, Manila Bulletin)