NEWSFLASH

Manila, Aug. 27, 2000 - The Philippines observes National Heroes Day today, Sunday, Aug. 27, with activities prepared by local government units and government offices nationwide.

Leading the ceremonies at 10 a.m. today at the Libingan ng mga Bayani (Heroes Cemetery) in Makati City are officials of the Department of National Defense (DND), the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), the National Commission for Culture and the Arts (NCCA), the National Historical Institute (NHI), the Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG), the Department of Education, Culture, and Sports, and the Commission on Higher Education (CHED).

President Estrada will be represented by AFP chief of staff Gen. Angelo Reyes who will lead the wreath laying rites. Defense Secretary Orlando S. Mercado will deliver a welcome address. AFP Chief Chaplain Col. Pedro R. Rebustilla, CHS, will lead an ecumenical prayer.

"National Heroes Day is a time to remember our forefathers' efforts to set us free," NHI Chairman Pablo Trillana said. "We are greatful for their sacrifices for the country. To forget their heroism would be a sin to their memory."

It was in August, 1896, that Katipunan leader Andres Bonifacio and his band of Katipuneros went to Pugad Lawin in the hills outside of Manila in what is now Quezon City to plan their revolt against the Spanish colonial government.

After finalizing their plans, Bonifacio and his followers tore their residence certificates and shouted "Freedom!. This is now commemorate as the "Cry of Pugad Lawin."

Local governments in Cavite, Bulacan, Laguna, and other parts of the country have prepared their own programs to commemorate National Heroes Day.