National Bible Day in the Philippines is on the last Monday of January every year, and we are happy to mark this day of meditation and deep spiritual connection. This year, it is celebrated on January 27. It’s a day dedicated to studying the “Bible.” We are sharing amazing facts about National Bible Day in the Philippines — an annual event observed to honor the word of God by reading the “Bible,” having “Bible” quizzes, and distributing the “Bible.” It is celebrated to inculcate in young and old Filipinos the practice of reading the “Bible,” whose words empower them to live with hope in difficult times.
History of National Bible Day
National Bible Day in the Philippines was first declared in 1982 by former President Ferdinand Marcos. He declared the first Sunday of Advent and the last week of November of every year as National Bible Sunday and National Bible Week.
National Bible Day was moved to January by President Corazon Aquino in 1986. He changed National Bible Week to the first month of the year. This proclamation was reinforced by President Fidel Ramos, who stressed that the nation should embrace the practice of reading the “Bible,” which words empower the nation to live with hope in difficult times.
On January 5, 2017, Rodrigo Duterte, President of the Philippines, signed into law National Bible Day. He proclaimed the last Monday of January as the official date for the celebration of National Bible Day.
On February 5, 2018, Senator Manny Pacquiao, the main author, and sponsor of the legislation, advocated for National Bible Day. Consequently, on December 20, 2018, the president signed it into law under the Republic Act 11163.
Observance of the “Bible” in the Philippines is a Christian tradition enshrined in the constitution and has continued to receive nationwide support. The Constitution states that “It is the policy of the state that the government shall aid and encourage the development of the moral character and spiritual foundation of the Filipino people.” Hence in the Philippines, the “Bible” is deemed a national symbol of peace and spirituality.
National Bible Day timeline
Ferdinand Marcos, President of the Philippines declares the first National Bible Day.
President Corazon Aquino makes the second declaration of National Bible Day in the Philippines and moves the date to January.
The President of the Philippines, Rodrigo Duterte proclaims the last Monday of every January the official National Bible Day.
On January 28, the last Monday of the month, Senator Manny Pacquiao celebrates National Bible Day with a special message to all Filipino citizens.
National Bible Day FAQs
When is National Bible Day?
National Bible Day is celebrated in the Philippines on the last Monday of January every year.
When is Bible Month in the Philippines?
Bible month in the Philippines takes place in January. It was formerly observed from November 1982 to 1985. It is a month taken to be steadfast in faith and study the word of God.
When is National Bible Week?
National Bible Week is observed on the week of Thanksgiving on the fourth week of November every year.
How to Observe National Bible Day
Attend a church service
Enjoy doing the things you normally do on Sundays on this special Monday. Go to church, listen to soul-lifting hymns by the choir, hear the gospel and bask in the incense-filled atmosphere of the church.
Study the "Bible" with a loved one at home
You can choose to read the "Bible" at home. Do it with a family member, get into discussions, and let the Word deepen your understanding.
Participate in "Bible" quizzes with friends
If you like "Bible" quizzes, team up with a couple of friends and take part in one, or organize it yourself and invite your friends or neighbors. There may even be interesting prices to be won.
5 Fun Facts About The "Bible"
It's the bestselling book in the world
The "Bible" is the best-selling book in the world with about 100 million copies sold annually.
The Oldest Version
The Vatican Library houses one of the earliest versions of the "Bible," which dates back to the 4th century.
It's the most stolen book
It's difficult to imagine but the "Bible" is the most stolen book in the world from hotels, hospitals, bookstores, and other locations.
The "Bible" is over 600,000 words long
The "Bible" contains over 600,000 words with the King James version having over 783,000 words.
The shortest verse in the "Bible"
"Jesus wept" in John 11:35 is the shortest verse in the "Bible" and a favorite of many "Bible" students for its short length and for being easy to remember in Bible quizzes.
Why National Bible Day is Important
Honor the word of God
Spend time alone reading the "Bible" and dwelling in the presence of God. It’s an opportunity to take time out of our busy schedules to study the "Bible" and meditate on God's Word.
Express love for the scripture
You get to not only read the scripture but also act the scripture. You are reminded to display the love the "Bible" talks about and can go about doing good things in the name of the Lord.
Thanksgiving Day
National Bible Day provides a wonderful opportunity to reflect on your life and give thanks for everything God has done for you. You can be grateful for his mercies and grace and spend time worshiping in his presence.
National Bible Day dates
| Year | Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| 2022 | January 31 | Monday |
| 2023 | January 30 | Monday |
| 2024 | January 29 | Monday |
| 2025 | January 27 | Monday |
| 2026 | January 26 | Monday |
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