- Categories:
- Federal
- Tags:
- CivicHistorical
- Where:
- Philippines
- Date change rule:
- Every March 7
- Holiday emoji:
- 🇵🇭
Jose Abad Santos Day honors a true national hero in the Philippines every March 7. This day commemorates the life and ultimate sacrifice of Chief Justice Jose Abad Santos, a beacon of patriotism during World War II. Reflect on his courage, learn about his legacy, and inspire a new generation with his story of resistance.
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History of Jose Abad Santos Day
On August 21, 2000, the Philippine Congress declared May 7 as a special non-working holiday in the province of Pampanga to honor the supreme martyr and hero, Jose Abad Santos. All schools, religious institutions, civic organizations, provincial and municipal communities, and individual citizens are required to observe this day with the appropriate ceremonies.
Santos was born on February 19, 1886. He was raised in Pampanga during the Philippine Revolution against Spain. He was part of the first generation of Filipinos sent to study at American universities. After graduating with a law degree, Santos took up the position of legal counsel for the Philippine National Bank and the Manila Railroad Company. He continued to rapidly rise through the ranks. On December 24, 1941, Santos was appointed the Chief Justice of the Supreme Court of the Philippines.
In March 1942, Santos displayed steadfast patriotism when he was invited by President Manuel Quezon to leave with him to the United States as a result of a rapidly advancing Japanese invasion. However, Santos declined, preferring to remain in the Philippines. Before he departed for the United States on March 17, 1942, Quezon appointed Santos as the Acting President and Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of the Philippines.
Santos and his son were captured by the Japanese in Cebu on April 11, 1942. In his capture, Abad further demonstrated personal integrity and loyalty to his nation by refusing to cooperate with the Japanese. He showed bravery and self-sacrifice even when threatened with death.
On May 2, 1942, Santos was executed by the Japanese forces after being held in confinement for two days.
Jose Abad Santos Day timeline
Santos creates the by-laws and the constitution of the Philippine Women's University, the country, and Asia's first private non-sectarian women's institute of higher learning.
Santos becomes Chief Justice of the Supreme Court of the Philippines on December 24.
On March 17, President Quezon appoints Santos as the Acting President and the Acting Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of the Philippines.
On April 11, Santos, his son, Col. Benito Valeriano, and two enlisted men are captured by the Japanese in Cebu.
Jose Abad Santos Day FAQs
When is Jose Abad Santos Day?
In 2027, Jose Abad Santos Day is observed on Sunday, March 7, providing an opportunity for reflection on his enduring legacy of patriotism.
How is Jose Abad Santos honored in the Philippines?
Commemorative events, such as flag-raising ceremonies and wreath-laying activities, are typically held on March 7 at historical sites and government institutions. His story is also a staple in Philippine history curricula.
What was Jose Abad Santos's career before World War II?
His legal expertise and integrity were widely recognized, leading him to hold various significant positions within the Philippine government, including a stint as a legal adviser to the President of the Commonwealth.
Why is Jose Abad Santos featured on the 1,000 peso bill?
His image on the banknote serves as a constant reminder of his heroic sacrifice and his refusal to collaborate with the enemy, inspiring future generations with his integrity and love for his country.
How to Observe Jose Abad Santos Day
Visit the Jose Abad Santos monument
The monument is more than a tourist attraction. It is a significant piece of history that will surely inspire Filipinos to remember and relive the heroic deeds of the former Chief Justice. Visit the historic monument along Jose Abad Santos Avenue, in the City of San Fernando, or at the Capitol Grounds.
Read up on Santos’ history
In 2018, the Philippine World War II Memorial Foundation launched a book titled “Honor: The Legacy of Jose Abad Santos.” It is written by Desiree Ann Cua Benipayo.
Attend ceremonies
Commemorative programs sometimes hosted by provincial governments also highlight wreath-laying ceremonies in front of Santos’ monument on the Capitol Grounds. Government officials of Pampanga participate in the unveiling of the historical monument of Jose Abad Santos in the City of San Fernando.
5 Important Facts About Jose Abad Santos
May 7 is not the date Santos died
Though previously thought to be May 7, from the testimony of Pepito, Santos was executed on May 2, 1942.
Santos was a Methodist and Freemason
Santos worshiped at Central United Methodist Church and was a member of the Upsilon Sigma Phi fraternity.
Santos’ remains were never found
After the war, several efforts were made to find the place where he was buried but they failed.
Santos was appointed Secretary of Justice
President Manuel Quezon appointed Santos as Secretary of Justice three consecutive times.
Santos had a nickname
His nickname was “Sengseng.”
Why Jose Abad Santos Day is Important
We remember Santos for his heroism and patriotism
In his life and career, Santos set an example of personal integrity, patriotism, and self-sacrifice to the cause of human freedom. An exemplary legacy the present and future generations of Filipinos will continue to admire and emulate.
It instills a sense of service
Jose Abad Santos Day inspires Filipino youths to live the ideals that Jose Abad Santos lived and died for. It encourages all citizens of the Philippines to follow his example of loyal and patriotic service to the country and humanity.
It honors Filipino war heroes and martyrs
Beginning in 1991, the martyrs Santos, Brigadier General Vicente Lim, and Josefa Llanes Escoda, who were killed by the Japanese Army during the Second World War were commemorated on the banknote of the Philippines. Josefa Llanes Escoda was the founder of the Girl Scouts of the Philippines
