The proclamation of the Philippine Independence on June 12, 1898, was a significant event in the

country's history. However, despite its importance, there are several logical critiques that can be made
about the proclamation.

Firstly, the proclamation was made by a group of Filipino leaders, without the consent of the
Spanish colonial authorities or the recognition of any other foreign power. This raises questions about the
legitimacy of the proclamation and the ability of the Filipino leaders to govern effectively. Without
international recognition and support, the proclamation may have been little more than a symbolic
gesture.

Secondly, the proclamation was made during a time of political upheaval and uncertainty. The
Spanish-American War was raging, and the Philippines were caught in the middle of it. The proclamation
could be seen as a desperate attempt to stake a claim to independence before a new colonial power, the
United States, could take control of the islands.
Thirdly, the proclamation did not lead to immediate independence for the Philippines. The
country remained under the control of the United States for several decades, and it was not until 1946 that
the Philippines finally gained full independence. This raises questions about the effectiveness of the
proclamation and its ability to bring about real change for the Filipino people.
Fourthly, the proclamation was made by a small group of Filipino leaders, without the input or
participation of the broader Filipino population. This raises questions about the democratic legitimacy of
the proclamation and whether it truly reflected the desires of the people of the Philippines.

Finally, the proclamation was made at a time when the concept of nationalism was still
developing in the Philippines. Many Filipinos still identified primarily with their local communities rather
than with a broader national identity. This raises questions about the extent to which the proclamation
truly represented the aspirations of the Filipino people.

A primary source that critiques the proclamation's effectiveness is a letter written by Emilio
Aguinaldo, the leader of the Filipino revolutionaries who made the proclamation. In his letter to the
American General Thomas Anderson, Aguinaldo expressed his frustration at the lack of support he
received from the United States government. He wrote, "I cannot conceal from Your Excellency that I
have been greatly disappointed at the treatment accorded to me and my associates." Aguinaldo's letter
highlights the fact that the proclamation did not lead to immediate independence for the Philippines, as
the country remained under American control for several decades.

In conclusion, while the proclamation of the Philippine Independence was a significant event in
the country's history, it is important to recognize the logical critiques that can be made about it. These
critiques raise important questions about the legitimacy, effectiveness, and democratic character of the
proclamation, and they remind us that the struggle for independence and self-determination is an ongoing
one that requires ongoing reflection and critique.