The House of Representatives on Tuesday passed the third and final reading of a bill establishing a yearly commemoration of the birth anniversary of Philippine hero Dr. Jose P. Rizal.
This bill aims to honor Dr. Rizal’s contributions to the country’s independence and his enduring efforts in the fight against colonization.
“By institutionalizing the commemoration of Dr. Jose Rizal’s birth anniversary, we ensure that future generations of Filipinos will continue to remember and draw inspiration from his legacy of patriotism, intellectual excellence, and unwavering dedication to the Filipino people,” House of Representatives Speaker Ferdinand Martin G. Romualdez said.
“This bill reflects our commitment to preserving and celebrating our rich national heritage,” he added.
The bill received 175 votes in favor, none against, and two abstentions during its final reading in the plenary session.
The principal authors of the bill are Representatives Jose Alvarez, Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo, Lordan Suan, Wilbert “Manoy” Lee, Anna Victoria Veloso-Tuazon, Ysabel Maria Zamora, and Edward Vera Perez Maceda.
House Bill No. 10958 designates June 19 as a special working holiday, officially called “Araw ng Kapanganakan ni Dr. Jose P. Rizal.”