Freedom to Explore: Museums and Monuments in Manila to Visit on Independence Day

As the Philippines celebrates its 127th Independence Day on June 12, why not take the time to honor the nation's history by exploring significant landmarks and monuments where Philippine history was made?

- Kara Santos

While the Aguinaldo Shrine and Museum in Cavite and Barasoain Church in Bulacan are the most iconic landmarks associated with the Declaration of Philippine Independence, you don't have to go far from the city to learn about our country's history. You can find several meaningful sites that shed light on the country's fight for freedom within Metro Manila.

Museo El Deposito and Museo ng Katipunan, Pinaglabanan Shrine

The Pinaglabanan Memorial Shrine in San Juan marks the site of the first battle of the Philippine Revolution in 1896, led by Andres Bonifacio. Katipunan forces aimed to seize El Deposito and El Polvorin—succeeding in the latter but ultimately losing the battle.

Today, visitors can walk through part of El Deposito's underground reservoir and explore its history at Museo El Deposito. Nearby, Museo ng Katipunan showcases artifacts from the revolution, including cedulas, amulets, medals, and weapons.

Museo El Deposito and Museo ng Katipunan, Pinaglabanan Memorial Shrine, San Juan City. Open from Tuesday to Sunday from 9:00 am to 4:00 pm. Admission is free to the public.