The National Anthem embodies the aspirations of the people to nationhood, a song which keeps alive the memories of the long struggle for freedom. It expresses praise, joy and other noble sentiments of the race.
The National Anthem has a common historical background with the National Flag, since it evolved as the nation was struggling for freedom and seeking international recognition. They were produced at different times and at different places, but both were made by people seeking to gain a nation for themselves.
General Aguinaldo, while busily planning the resumption of the revolution, was visited by a young composer and pianist named Julian Felipe. He was recommended by General Mariano Trias because Aguinaldo was looking for a musician.
Aguinaldo requested him to play a hymn on the piano which a Filipino had composed in Hong Kong. The music of the hymn was good, but Aguinaldo and the others wanted something more solemn, majestic, and dignified.
Six days later, on the 11th of June, Julian Felipe composed the new hymn and Aguinaldo and his men set aside their plans to focus on that hymn.
The "Marcha Nacional Filipina", otherwise known as the "Himno Nacional Filipino", thrilled the vast crowd, swept them off their feet and aroused them to great enthusiasm.