Marcos Jr. moves Ninoy Aquino Day to August 23
President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has moved Ninoy Aquino Day, a special non-working day, from August 21 to 23.
Malacañang announced the change of date for the holiday through Proclamation No. 665 amending the previous announcement of regular and special holidays for 2024.
According to the proclamation, the holiday was moved "to provide for a longer weekend thereby promoting domestic tourism, the celebration of Ninoy Aquino Day may be moved from 21 August 2024 (Wednesday) to 23 August 2024 (Friday), provided that the historical significance of Ninoy Aquino Day is maintained."
Ninoy Aquino Day, observed annually on August 21, commemorates the life and legacy of former senator Benigno "Ninoy" Aquino, a critic of the late Ferdinand Marcos Sr., current President Marcos Jr.'s father.
A leader in the opposition, Aquino was arrested when the older Marcos declared martial law in 1972 and spent eight years behind bars.
Aquino was assassinated on Aug. 21, 1983 on the tarmac of the Manila International Airport (later renamed Ninoy Aquino International Airport) as he arrived from the US to be transported to his detention cell in Fort Bonifacio.
Long weekend plans
With Ninoy Aquino Day moved to a Friday, Filipinos can enjoy a long weekend until Monday, Aug. 26, a regular holiday commemorating National Heroes' Day.
Eyeing to make last-minute travel plans? Why not take a staycation just outside of Metro Manila like Tanay, La Union, Pampanga, Cavite, or Batangas?
You can also bring your fur babies on a trip by visiting these pet-friendly resorts.