The Meaning Behind The Song: Lupang Hinirang by Republic of the Philippines
| Title | Lupang Hinirang |
|---|---|
| Artist | Republic of the Philippines |
| Writer/Composer | Julian Felipe (music) Jose Palma (lyrics) |
| Album | N/A |
| Release Date | N/A |
| Genre | National Anthem |
| Producer | N/A |
The Birth of a National Anthem
The Philippine National Anthem is a product of revolution, a response to the need of the revolutionary times that gave birth to it. And this need arose in 1898 when the revolution against Spain was in its second year and a Filipino victory was in sight.
Gen. Emilio Aguinaldo astutely recognized the need for national symbols to rally the nation against the enemy. On June 5, 1898, he commissioned Julian Felipe, a Cavite pianist and composer, to work on a march for the revolutionists. Felipe worked on the assignment for six days, and on June 11, sitting in front of a piano in the Aguinaldo living room, played his music before the presidente and his lieutenants. Named by Felipe the “Marcha Filipino Magdalo” (after Aguinaldo’s nom de guerre and his faction in the Katipunan), the music was adopted on the spot and renamed the “Marcha Nacional Filipina” (Philippine National March).
The national anthem was heard publicly for the first time on June 12, 1898, when, standing on the balcony of his Kawit mansion, Aguinaldo proclaimed Asia’s first independent republic before a cheering throng. Two rallying symbols were presented to the infant nation that day. Also displayed for the first time was the national flag, unfurled to the stirring strains of the “marcha nacional” played by the band of San Francisco de Malabon (now Heneral Trias) whose members had learned the music the day before.
The Lyrics Are Added
But still without words, Felipe’s music was simply a march. It could not be sung. The need for lyrics was just as great as there was for the music. In December 1898, the Philippines was ceded by Spain to the United States of America in the Treaty of Paris. Having thrown off Spanish rule, the Filipinos found themselves under new colonial masters, the Americans. In February 1899, the Filipino-American War erupted.
The defiant lyrics to match the stirring strains of Felipe were supplied by Jose Palma, a 23-year-old soldier who was as adept with the pen as he was with the sword. He wrote a poem entitled “Filipinas” and this was wedded to the Felipe composition. The anthem was readily taken by the young nation at war. But on March 23, 1901, the war with America ground to a halt with the capture of Aguinaldo in Palanan, Isabela.
The first half of the 20th century were years of humiliation for the Filipinos and their anthem. The American administrators discouraged the singing of the anthem, and in the 1920s, Palma’s original Spanish lyrics underwent several English and Tagalog translations. The most popular were the versions in English by Camilo Osias and M.A.L. Lane, and the Tagalog version.
In 1956, a new version penned by the Surian ng Wikang Pambansa (Institute of National Language) was adopted. These are the official Filipino lyrics sung all over the country today and given wider propagation through radio, television, and cinema.
The Meaning and Personal Connection
“Lupang Hinirang,” the Philippine National Anthem, embodies the spirit of independence and resilience of the Filipino people. It is a symbol of the country’s struggle for freedom from colonial rule and its aspiration to stand proud among nations.
The song’s lyrics celebrate the beauty of the homeland, its rich history, and the bravery of its people. It speaks of unity and solidarity, calling for Filipinos to rise together and defend their land. It is a constant reminder that the Philippines is a nation built on the sacrifices and courage of its ancestors.
As a Filipino, the national anthem holds a special place in my heart. Whenever I hear its familiar melody, a surge of pride and patriotism overwhelms me. It reminds me of the sacrifices made by my fellow countrymen throughout history to secure the freedoms we enjoy today.
Whether sung during national events, sports competitions, or even in school, “Lupang Hinirang” unites Filipinos in a shared love for their country. It is a song that resonates deeply within each Filipino, reminding us of our collective identity and inspiring us to continue striving for a better future.
Moreover, the anthem serves as a powerful symbol of hope and resilience during challenging times. It reminds us that even in the face of adversity, the Filipino spirit remains unbroken.
In conclusion, the meaning behind the song “Lupang Hinirang” is one of national pride, unity, and resilience. It tells the story of a nation’s struggle for independence and serves as a constant reminder of the sacrifices made by the Filipino people. As a Filipino, this anthem holds great significance to me, and it serves as a source of inspiration and pride. Let us continue to honor and uphold the values it represents, ensuring a bright and prosperous future for the Republic of the Philippines.
