National Heroes Day Description
National Heroes Day (Araw ng mga Bayani) on the last Monday of August (August 31, 2026) honors all Filipino heroes — known and unknown — who contributed to the nation's freedom, democracy, and development. It encompasses figures like Jose Rizal, Andres Bonifacio, Apolinario Mabini, Emilio Aguinaldo, Gabriela Silang, Lapu-Lapu, and countless unnamed heroes. Wreath-laying ceremonies are held at the Libingan ng mga Bayani (Heroes' Cemetery) in Taguig and at various national shrines. Government offices, banks, post offices, and schools close. The Monday placement creates a three-day weekend that many Filipinos use for family activities, domestic travel, or quiet relaxation. Malls remain open and typically run National Heroes Day sales. It is a less emotionally charged holiday than Independence Day or Rizal Day — more of a general day of gratitude and reflection. Television networks air patriotic programming and documentaries about Philippine history. The holiday also serves as an occasion to remember modern-day heroes, including Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) and frontline workers.
