Local and overseas national-democratic groups protested to condemn the continued neocolonial rule of US imperialism in the country on June 12. The protests were part of the Philippines’ commemoration of the 126th day of its false independence declared in June 12, 1896.

Various groups led by the Bagong Alyansang Makabayan (Bayan) marched towards the US embassy on Roxas Boulevard, Pasay City. “The Philippines is not truly free. The US remains the biggest threat to Philippine sovereignty today as it engages in inter-imperialist provocation with China and incites war through an expanded US military presence in the country, ” the group stated.

Bayan said US imperialism influence in Philippine economy, politics, culture and military is deeply rooted and extensive. “The US has a long history of colonialism and neo-colonialism in our country,” it said.

The group said the US domination over the country as a colony and, later, as a neocolony is the main reason why the country remains poor and underdeveloped. “The Marcos regime pretends to be the protector of Philippine sovereignty even as it allows the perpetual US military presence in the country,” said the group.

Bayan called on the Filipino people to expose and oppose US imperialism and fight for true freedom and democracy in the Philippines. “We stand in solidarity with the people of the world who are resisting the US war machine, from Palestine to the Philippines,” it added.

Meanwhile, Southern Tagalog democratic organizations led by Bayan-Southern Tagalog held a caravan in the towns of Cavite. They also protested in Kawit, Cavite where the false independence of the Philippines was declared.

In Cebu City, Bayan-Central Visayas also held a demonstration on Colon Street. Various activities and actions were launched by Filipino migrant organizations and Bayan chapters in San Francisco and Los Angeles in California, in Washington, Chicago and Oregon.