SENATOR Loren Legarda underscored the vital role of historical education in strengthening Philippine independence during her speech at the 127th anniversary of the Bacoor Assembly.

Speaking at the historic site in Bacoor, Cavite—where 200 municipal leaders ratified a revised version of the Philippine Declaration of Independence on August 1, 1898—Legarda called on Filipinos, especially the youth, to deepen their understanding of history as a foundation for national identity and responsible citizenship.

“True freedom is not only the ability to act, but the freedom to act in service of others,” Legarda said.

“We cannot attain genuine independence unless we truly know ourselves as a nation,” she added.

Legarda emphasized that commemorating events like the Bacoor Assembly is not mere tradition but an opportunity to reinforce the country’s collective memory and purpose.

She noted that the Assembly’s revised declaration, which removed references to foreign dependency, was a clear assertion of Philippine sovereignty—an important step toward the formation of the Malolos Congress.

As an advocate of cultural and historical preservation, Legarda has authored and supported numerous laws in education and heritage. These include the National Cultural Heritage Act, the Cultural Mapping Law, and Republic Act No. 12073, which officially marks August 1 as the Day of Publication and Proclamation of Philippine Independence.

She has also supported the Schools of Living Traditions, which integrate indigenous knowledge systems into community education, and produced programs like Dayaw to make Filipino culture more accessible to the public.

In her message, Legarda urged schools to go beyond textbook instruction by encouraging critical engagement with history.

“The spirit of August 1 is a reminder of our unity. By understanding our past, we empower the next generation to protect and enrich our freedom,” she said.

Legarda continues to push for education policies that integrate history, culture, and identity-building into the broader goal of national development.