111 years ago, General Emilio Aguinaldo, the first president and a respected hero of our country, proudly waived the Philippine Flag at his house in Kawit, Cavite symbolizing the long-awaited proclamation of independence of the Filipino nation. It’s about fighting for our pride and dignity to achieve the eternity of having one country united as one. Perhaps the true meaning of this can be attested by myself, a proud Caviteño who is raised beyond the unwavering courage of an individual, molded into a pure and passionate type that possesses a sheer amount of simplicity within myself.
Being a typical “promdi” guy I believe, is not applicable to me because I think, I am a mixture of a Mañileno and a Caviteño, whose cultures sometimes don’t agree because of each other’s uniqueness and distinctiveness. And by the way, I was raised by my parents in Imus, Cavite, my beloved hometown that is actually a place that you can somewhat find it historical and full of mystery due to its compelling nature.
The historical background of our province has many citations and achievements received. Cavite is named as the "Historical Capital of the Philippines "and was the cradle of Philippine Revolution, and also the birthplace of Philippine Independence. On the other hand, our town in Imus, was formerly the Capital of Cavite between 1970’s to 80’s and arguably has one of the best municipal administrators during the Marcos Regime. Famous personalities like the first and only so called Prime Minister by the name of Mr. Cesar Virata, a big name on our town that once an influential man during the time of the 70’s. Another also, is that we are also once regarded as the “Christmas Capital of the Philippines” in the 1980’s and 1990’s, because our community, specifically the barangay’s, where each clusters of the area will have striking Christmas decorations throughout the streets, resulting into colorful, lively environment come Christmas time.
At present, our town was freshly minted as the “Flag Capital of the Philippines” because of the historical reasons which was dated during the last stages of the Filipino-Spanish War. It is in Imus itself, where are very own Philippine flag was first raised and waived after we have defeated a strong contingent of Spanish forces in the infamous “Battle of Alapan” in late 1890’s. Cavite was indeed a place for a number of heroes and martyr’s during the war years back. Just like the “trese martires” (13 martyrs) of Cavite was one of the most dramatic and remarkable stories of individuals who sacrificed everything for the love of his/her country.
The basis of our CULTURE was perhaps based on a specific type of attitude, and this was the spirit of PATRIOTISM. Bravery along with courage, attest to our customs and traditions that is loved by many of our fellowmen and was witnessed by many, resulting of forming such celebrations like the annually celebrated KALAYAAN Festival, which showcases flashbacks and commemoration of the independence and the war that changed the road of our fate in the years back. Senators, and even the Vice President of our country gives time to sit back and enjoy the wonders of our history from the Spanish to the American Occupation. It is my great joy to witness such events especially when you are the son of your great homeland.
Caviteños believe that we all stand together because of a glorious past. We are considered warm and friendly people, whom our ancestors came down with a noble cause, manifest industry and patience in various skills and professions, openly receptive to the entry and exchange of culture and technology that are of value to our beloved province. The native culture and personality of our people was probably based in the beginning of our roots of a long line of heroes and our historical happenings in the past, where presently, Imusneños possesses a strong humor and human nature. We are introduced like this, having the character and personality of being enthusiastic and full of desire to do the fullest of things.
Years back, traditions, fiestas, memorial and etc. were intensely celebrated by the people in our community. We have a very strong RELIGIOUS practices by which according to my grandparents, is an evident part of the long account of culture of our province. In Imus, we have the Cathedral there, and this was the center for all the events and gatherings for the said feasts and celebrations.
Being a CAVITEÑO is indeed a great honor for me to carry, for which it symbolizes that we FILIPINOS have own unique roots and backgrounds to explore with. It is funny in some point, of which ANTHROPOLOGY is related in tracing back all the historical pieces that have transpired especially to us and the community. Nevertheless, I believe that we can defend and preserve the honor of our country through our own actions, and the most critical thing is how we are willing to do it, for God and for country AD JESUM PER MARIAM.
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