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National Heroes' Day – August 26, 2024

Observed on the last Monday of each August, National Heroes Day commemorates the Cry of Pugad Lawin, a revolt that kicked off the 1896 Philippine Revolution against the Spanish Empire and the long struggle toward that country’s independence.

After centuries of rule by Spain, the United States, and Japan, the Philippines finally achieved full independence at the end of World War II. This victory ended a protracted conflict that pitted the small island nation against major world powers.

Filipinos celebrate Heroes Day with parades, events at local shrines, and fireworks displays, honoring the known and unknown heroes of the Revolution.

When is National Heroes' Day 2024?

The Philippines’ independence following the revolution against the Spanish Empire is celebrated on National Heroes Day on August 23.

History of National Heroes' Day

The picture-perfect islands and sparkling Pacific waters that surround the Philippines belie the country’s tumultuous history and struggle for freedom. On the last Monday of August, Filipinos commemorate the Cry of Pugad Lawin, a pivotal moment in the Filipino independence movement.

Ferdinand Magellan claimed the Philippines for Spain on a 1542 expedition. After three hundred years of Spanish colonial rule, realizing the Spanish had no intention of loosening their grip on the island territory, the Katipunan movement — led by Andres Bonifacio — mounted an armed uprising. Bonifacio and his men publicly tore up their cedulas (residence certificates issued by the Spanish), shouting “Long live the Philippines!” kickstarting a revolution.

Though the Spanish eventually defeated Bonifacio and his troops, their insurrection inspired a wave of revolts across the country that ultimately led to the Spanish-American War and in 1899, the formation of the First Philippine Republic.

The road to full independence wound through an alliance with the United States, a betrayal by the Americans, and another war. By 1902, over 40,000 Filipinos had died, and the U.S. replaced military rule with civilian rule. It wasn’t until 1946, after a brutal Japanese occupation, that the Republic of the Philippines finally became free.

Enacted as a holiday in 1931, while the Philippines was still a U.S. commonwealth, National Heroes Day honors known and unknown national heroes. The holiday defiantly endured through the Japanese occupation and continues to hold an important place in the Filipino calendar today. Citizens honor fallen heroes with solemn military events, wreath layings, and parades.

National Heroes' Day timeline

1542
The Spanish Claim

A Spanish expedition ‘discovers’ the islands, naming them for a Spanish prince.

1946
True Independence

After Japan's seizure of the islands in World War II, the Republic of the Philippines finally becomes an independent nation.

1965
Ferdinand Marcos becomes President

Ruling for over two decades, infamous dictator Ferdinand Marcos becomes known for his brutality, corruption, and use of martial law to suppress opposition.

July 16, 1990
Massive Earthquake Wreaks Havoc

A 7.7-magnitude earthquake strikes Luzon Island, killing over 1,000 people.

Traditions of the Day

National Heroes Day primarily celebrates the people who stirred the Philippine revolution, unshackling the country from Spanish rule and securing their independence from the U.S.

It is a public holiday, with the general population getting the day off from work and schools and businesses being closed. 

Parades are organized and wreaths are laid in honor of those who lost their lives while bringing independence to the country.

By The Numbers 

7,100 – the number of islands constituting the Philippines.

28.1% – the percentage of Tagalog people that make up the Filipino population.

108.1 million – the population of the Philippines.

80% – the percentage of people in the Philippines who are Roman Catholic.

1521 – the year when Ferdinand Magellan claimed the Philippine islands for Spain.

National Heroes' Day FAQs

How many islands make up the Philippine archipelago?

The Philippines is made up of over 7,500 islands, 5,000 of which remain unnamed.

Do other countries celebrate National Heroes Day?

Yes, most countries have a national holiday celebrating veterans and the military.

Why did Filipinos revolt against the Spanish?

By the 1890s, the pressure built up by three centuries of oppressive Spanish rule led the Filipino people to organize and claim their independence.

How to Observe National Heroes' Day

  1. Visit a veterans’ memorial

    Whether or not you have loved ones who served in the military, you can take a moment to visit a public warm memorial and pay your respects to the veterans who fight for freedom and independence in every country.

  2. Attend a parade

    Heroes Day is commonly celebrated with parades in most Filipino towns.

  3. Spend time with family

    If you have the day off from work, use the time to connect with your family and enjoy a local park or attraction you haven’t gotten around to visiting.

5 Fascinating Facts About The Philippines

  1. "Texting capital" of the world

    400 million texts every day, more than the U.S. and Europe combined.

  2. The densest population center

    Manila, the capital, has the world's highest population density at 55,446 people per square mile.

  3. Mall rat heaven

    Three of the ten largest malls in the world are in the Philippines, where the hot and humid climate drives people to air-conditioned indoor attractions.

  4. 1 in 10 Filipinos work overseas

    More than a tenth of the population works overseas and consist of 25% of all overseas nurses

  5. The yo-yo is a Filipino invention

    The popular stringed toy, inspired by an ancient Filipino hunting weapon, was invented by a Filipino-American.

Why National Heroes' Day is Important

  1. It reminds us to be grateful

    National Heroes Day reminds us that freedom comes at the cost of others’ sacrifices. For the Philippines, the long, painful road to independence is paved with the losses of many historic heroes.

  2. It lets us spend time with family

    Since Heroes Day is a national holiday, it’s a great opportunity to use the time off to spend time with your family and loved ones.

  3. It’s a chance to learn some history

    If you don’t know much about the history of this fascinating archipelago, take some time on National heroes Day to learn more about the Philippines and its journey to independence.

National Heroes' Day dates

YearDateDay
2021August 30Monday
2022August 29Monday
2023August 28Monday
2024August 26Monday
2025August 25Monday

Get Social

Here are some special hashtags for the day.

#NationalHeroesDay #NationalHeroesDayPhilippines #PhilippinesIndependence #PhilippineRevolution #PhilippineIslands

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