August 25 is National Heroes Day in the Philippines. It is a national public holiday, held every last Monday of August, to honor and remember the country’s National heroes, men and women in Philippine history whose acts of courage enabled the Philippines to grow as a nation. Our known national heroes are: Jose Rizal, Andres Bonifacio,Emilio Aguinaldo, Apolinario Mabini, Marcelo H. del Pilar, Sultan Dipatuan Kudarat, Juan Luna, Melchora Aquino, Gabriela Silang.
During National Heroes Day, honor and salute are also given to those unknown heroes whose lives were given up for our peace and democracy. Although there are commemorations and parades and wreath laying at shrines, etc., many of our youth no longer appreciate or know the significance of this day. Hence, HERO Foundation, through its upcoming activities, in cooperation with the Armed Forces of the Philippines, hopes to draw attention back to the importance of this day, to celebrate, with gratitude, for all our heroes. (more…)