Last updated on April 15th, 2025 at 02:42 pm
The National Heroes Day of the Philippines is celebrated annually every last Monday of August, as Republic Act No. 9242 mandated. The commemorative day will be held on August 26th, 2024, to honor the nation’s beloved and honorable heroes. This day is dedicated to paying tribute to those who have made their mark on the nation’s quality of life and destiny through their bravery, sacrifices, and patriotism.
On November 15, 1995, the National Historical Commission formally recognized nine Filipino historical figures as national heroes of the Philippines for their extraordinary dedication to the nation’s freedom, history, and identity. The Philippine National Heroes honored are Jose Rizal, Andres Bonifacio, Emilio Aguinaldo, Apolinario Mabini, Marcelo H. Del Pilar, Sultan Dipatuan Kudarat, Juan Luna, Melchora Aquino, and Gabriela Silang.
Why Do We Celebrate National Heroes Day in the Philippines?
Each year, the Philippines is filled with national pride as it celebrates National Heroes Day, also known as “Araw ng mga Bayani.” Initially, in 1931, the Philippine legislature passed Act No. 3827, which designated the last Sunday of August as National Heroes Day to commemorate the Cry of Pugad Lawin. This event marked the beginning of the Philippine Revolution against Spanish rule in August 1896, led by Andres Bonifacio and the Katipunan society. The “Cry” signified a prolonged struggle for independence that united Filipinos across the archipelago in their pursuit of freedom.
Today, through Act No. 9492, signed on July 24, 2007, Filipinos pay tribute to their heroes every last Monday of August. National Heroes Day is celebrated through vibrant activities and solemn ceremonies nationwide, including parades, cultural performances, flag-raising events, and processions. This day serves to honor and instill patriotism, reflect on the nation’s history, and recognize the sacrifices made by heroes for the country’s independence and progress.
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August 26, 2024, Marks the 128th Anniversary of Philippine National Heroes Day
National Heroes Day commemorates the Cry of Pugad Lawin, which marked the beginning of the Philippine Revolution against Spanish rule in August 1896. This year marks the 128th anniversary of the Philippine National Heroes Day. This national holiday honors all the Philippine heroes, including those whose names have been forever lost to history.
Beyond the celebrated heroes, recognition extends to unsung Filipino heroes among dedicated educators, farmers, fishermen, medical professionals, OFWs, construction workers, and all hardworking individuals who inspire and motivate the Filipino people to become the heroes they can be. Their sacrifices and selfless acts embody true heroism.
Criteria for Becoming a National Hero in the Philippines
- Heroes are those who have a concept of nation and thereafter aspire and struggle for the nation’s freedom.
- Heroes are those who define and contribute to a system or life of freedom and order for a nation.
- Heroes are those who contribute to the quality of life and destiny of a nation.
- A hero is part of the people’s expression. But the process of a people’s internalization of a hero’s life and works takes time, with the youth forming a part of the internalization.
- A hero thinks of the future, especially the future generations.
- The choice of a hero involves not only the recounting of an episode or events in history, but of the entire process that made this particular person a hero.
The National Philippine Heroes
Jose Rizal (1861 - 1896)
José Protasio Rizal Mercado y Alonso Realonda, better known as Jose Rizal, was a patriot, doctor, writer, and nationalist who rose to recognition through his literary works. His creative works revealed the societal injustices of Spanish colonial rule. His works "Noli Me Tangere" and "El Filibusterismo" inspired Filipinos to a national awakening and reform movement. Rizal's execution in 1896 made him a martyr and a symbol of the Philippine battle for independence.
Andres Bonifacio (1863 - 1897)
Andres Bonifacio, known as the "Father of the Philippine Revolution," founded and led the Katipunan, a secret society that began the fight for independence from Spain. His leadership and ambition for the independence of the Philippines fueled the Philippine Revolution in August 1896 against the Spanish. He was executed in 1897 by rival revolutionary forces, but his efforts established the foundation for the Filipino's fight for freedom.
Emilio Aguinaldo (1869 - 1964)
Emilio Aguinaldo was a Filipino leader who became the first president of the Philippine new republic under the Malolos Congress. He led the Philippine-American War against the United States' opposition to Philippine independence. He declared Philippine independence on June 12, 1898. His leadership when the Philippines needed it most established his legacy as a vital figure in the country's path to sovereignty.
Apolinario Mabini (1864 - 1903)
Apolinario Mabini, often known as the "Dakilang Lumpo," was a brilliant lawyer, theorist, spokesman, and political philosopher who served as Emilio Aguinaldo's chief advisor. Despite his physical limitations on the battlefield, Mabini equipped himself with an exceptional mind and great patriotism, making him a martyr for the cause of national liberation. Mabini's commitment to the cause and vision for an independent Philippines gained him a valued place in history.
Marcelo H. del Pilar (1850 - 1896)
Marcelo Gatmaitan Hilario del Pilar was a writer and patriot who inspired modern historians to study revolution, justice, and democracy. As an integral individual in the Propaganda Movement, he edited "La Solidaridad," which became a platform for defending Filipino rights. His efforts to awaken Filipino nationalism were crucial in the creation of revolution.
Sultan Dipatuan Kudarat (1580 - 1671)
Sultan Dipatuan Kudarat was a great Muslim leader who ruled Mindanao for 52 years and defended it from Spanish conquerors. His reign was regarded as one of the most interesting in Philippine history. His ability to unify separated Moro tribes and his strategic military resistance made him an imminent opponent of the Spanish and a symbol of perseverance for Philippine independence.
Juan Luna (1857 - 1899)
Juan Luna de San Pedro y Novicio Ancheta was a Filipino painter, sculptor, and late-nineteenth-century political figure in the Philippine Revolution. Juan used his exceptional artistic skills to promote national pride and awareness. His artworks, such as "Spoliarium," represent the distress and numerous deaths of Filipinos during the Spanish rule. Luna's role in the Propaganda Movement and his creative talents helped establish his position as a national hero.
Melchora Aquino (1812 - 1919)
Melchora Aquino, better known as Tandang Sora, became the best supporter of the Philippine revolution despite her age of 84. She made significant contributions to the Katipunan by providing shelter, food, and care to its fighters. Her devoted support for the revolution and participation in its development earned her the title of "Mother of the Philippine Revolution."
Gabriela Silang (1731 - 1763)
Maria Josefa Gabriela Silang is best known as the female military leader of the Ilocano independence movement from Spain. After her husband's death, who was a revolutionary leader, rebels lost hope. None of the men volunteered to be the new face of the revolt. Gabriela did something heroic and took her husband's place as the rebellion's leader. Her bravery and leadership in battle made her a symbol of a revolutionary hero.
