Republic of the Philippines
OFFICE OF THE PRESIDENT
Malacañang Palace, Manila


PROCLAMATION No. 351          April 1, 2003

DECLARING APRIL 7, 2003, MONDAY, AS A SPECIAL DAY THROUGHOUT THE COUNTRY, AND APRIL 9, 2003, WEDNESDAY, AS A REGULAR WORKING DAY IN COMMEMORATION OF "ARAW NG KAGITINGAN"

         WHEREAS, "Araw ng Kagitingan"’ which is observed as a regular holiday on April 9 of each year, is a fitting recognition and tribute to the heroism of our countrymen, who fought and died in the struggle to defend our freedom and democracy;

         WHEREAS, a longer weekend encourages families to travel and get together, with a view to strengthening their relationship towards a more productive environment;

         WHEREAS, to enable our countrymen to avail of the benefits of a longer weekend, the Secretary of the Department of Tourism has recommended that April 7, 2003 be declared as special day, instead of April 9, 2003, provided that the historical significance of "Araw ng Kagitingan" is maintained.

         NOW, THEREFORE, I. ALBERTO G. ROMULO, by order of Her Excellency, GLORIA MACAPAGAL-ARROYO, do hereby declare Monday, April 7, 2003 as a special day throughout the country.

         All activities and celebrations for the historical milestones in observance of "Araw ng Kagitingan" shall remain to be a regular working day, to enable all government officials and employees to participate fully in the activities and celebrations for this historical commemoration.

         The Department of Labor and Employment is hereby directed to issue appropriate circulars in implementation of this Proclamation in the private sector.

         Done in the City of Manila, this 01 day of April, In the year of Our Lord, Two Thousand and Three.


By order of the President:


(Sgd.) ALBERTO G. ROMULO
Executive Secretary


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