National Heroes’ Day

National Heroes’ Day, observed on the last Monday of August, commemorates the Pugad Lawin Rebellion, which ignited the Philippine Revolution of 1896 against Spanish rule and marked the nation’s long struggle for independence. After centuries under Spanish, American, and Japanese control, the Philippines finally gained full independence at the end of World War II, following a prolonged and often brutal conflict. Today, Filipinos solemnly celebrate this patriotic holiday with military parades, wreath-laying ceremonies at local shrines, and fireworks honoring both the well-known and unsung heroes of the revolution.

History

Ferdinand Magellan claimed the Philippines for Spain during his 1521 expedition. After three centuries of Spanish colonial rule, the Katipunan movement, led by Andrés Bonifacio, sparked an armed uprising. Although the initial rebellion was suppressed, it led to widespread unrest that eventually contributed to the Spanish-American War and, by 1899, the formation of the First Philippine Republic. The journey to full independence included an alliance with the United States, subsequent betrayal, and a new war for freedom. By 1902, more than 40,000 Filipinos had died, and the U.S. replaced military with civilian rule. The Republic of the Philippines became fully independent only in 1946, after enduring a harsh Japanese occupation during World War II.

National Heroes’ Day was introduced as a holiday in 1931, when the Philippines was still allied with the United States, to honor the heroes of the revolution and those who resisted Japanese occupation. The first annual celebration was held in Balintawak in 1908. In 1911, a monument to the Rebellion—a lone warrior popularly identified as Bonifacio—was erected in Balintawak.

Interesting Facts

It remains a mystery whether the uprising in August 1896 began in Pugad Lawin or Balintawak.

How to Take Part

1. Read about the Philippine Revolution—it’s a fascinating part of history!
2. Congratulate Filipino friends and colleagues on their national day.
3. Visit a local shrine to pay respects to those who gave their lives for independence.
4. Participate in or watch a military parade.
5. Enjoy fireworks displays in honor of the nation’s heroes.

When is National Heroes’ Day in 2025?

National Heroes’ Day is observed on the last Monday of August each year.

Observations