MANILA, Philippines—Malacañang on Friday declared June 20 a special non-working holiday to commemorate the 150th birth anniversary of the country’s national hero, Jose P. Rizal.
Executive Secretary Paquito N. Ochoa Jr. said President Aquino signed Proclamation No. 154 on April 26 moving the commemoration of Rizal’s birthday on June 19, which falls on a Sunday, to June 20.
Ochoa said the President issued the order on the recommendation of the National Historical Commission of the Philippines (NHCP).
“The President deems it as an opportune time for our kababayans to commemorate our national hero’s achievements and sacrifices for our beloved country, rekindle their admiration and respect for him, as well as participate in the various ceremonies that were prepared to celebrate this occasion,” Ochoa said in a statement.
NHCP Executive Director III Ludovico Badoy said various activities had been prepared by the government and the private sector to celebrate Rizal’s 150th birth anniversary, including commemorative rites at the Rizal Shrine in Calamba City in Laguna, the national hero’s birth place.