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Republic of the Philippines 
House of Representatives 
Quezon City, Metro Manila 
Nineteenth Congress 
Second Regular Session 
HOUSE BILL NO. 9846 
Introduced by Representative LORDAN G. SUAN 
AN ACT 
DECLARING GAT JOSE P. RIZAL AS THE NATIONAL HERO 
EXPLANATORY NOTE 
Our nation has a rich history, shaped by enduring challenges like foreign 
rule, where various nations once took control of the Philippines. Our ancestors, 
strong and determined, navigated a past filled with struggle and hardship, 
standing resolute in the face of sorrow and violence. The stories of heroes who 
fought fearlessly during these times echo through history, their unshakeable 
belief rooted in the hope that our country would eventually break free from 
oppression. 
In the midst of current challenges, particularly those arising from the 
issues in the West Philippine Sea, a timely opportunity arises for us to rekindle 
our love and dedication to our nation. Now, more than ever, it is imperative to 
formally acknowledge a pivotal figure in our history—Gat Jose P. Rizal. This 
recognition serves as a wellspring of inspiration, reminding us of the paramount 
importance of cherishing and safeguarding our homeland, all the while 
prioritizing the safety of our fellow citizens. 
Gat Rizal, a dedicated advocate for our country, not only defended our 
nation through peaceful means but also emerged as a profound inspiration for 
other heroes during periods of oppression. His legacy serves as a guiding light, 
encouraging us to emulate his unwavering commitment to the betterment of 
our society and the protection of our national interests. 
January 31, 2024
10:56 am


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Gat Jose Rizal's contributions and achievements as a medical professional 
and on the international stage further solidify the justification for his official 
recognition as the National Hero. Apart from his literary masterpieces, Rizal 
earned licentiates in medicine from the Universidad Central de Madrid, 
showcasing his intellectual prowess in the medical field. His dedication to 
education and his role as a physician reflect his multifaceted brilliance, adding a 
unique dimension to his legacy. 
On the international front, Gat Jose Rizal's achievements stand as a 
testament to his global impact. His involvement in the Propaganda Movement 
in Europe aimed at advocating for reforms in the Philippines garnered 
international attention. Rizal's connections with prominent intellectuals and 
leaders of his time, such as Ferdinand Blumentritt, highlight his influence on the 
global stage. 
Republic Act No. 1425, commonly known as the Rizal Law, underscores 
the importance of studying the life, works, and writings of Gat Jose Rizal in 
educational institutions. This legislation acknowledges the pivotal role he played 
in shaping the nation's consciousness and inspiring resistance against 
oppression. The recognition of Rizal as our National Hero is implicit in this law, 
emphasizing the need for a formal declaration. 
As stated clearly in Republic Act No. 11144, which designates a special 
non-working holiday across the entire province of Laguna, it indicates that this 
holiday is meant to honor the birth of our NATIONAL HERO, Gat Jose P. Rizal. 
Such legislative measures distinctly affirm our nation's recognition and 
acknowledgment of Gat Jose P. Rizal as the National Hero. 
This proposed bill aims to address the longstanding issues and obstacles 
hindering the official declaration of Gat Jose Rizal as the National Hero. By filling 
this legislative void, we not only honor the man himself but also the ideals he 
passionately advocated. The bill ensures that future generations draw 
inspiration from Rizal's diverse legacy, be it in literature, medicine, or 
international relations, affirming our commitment to preserving and celebrating 
the values that have shaped our nation's identity and resilience. In recognizing 
Gat Jose Rizal as our official National Hero, we affirm our dedication to a future 
built on justice, equality, and enlightened patriotism. 
In light of the preceding, this bill’s approval is fervently sought. 


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LORDAN G. SUAN 
Cagayan de Oro City – 1st District 


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Republic of the Philippines 
House of Representatives 
Quezon City, Metro Manila 
Nineteenth Congress 
Second Regular Session 
HOUSE BILL NO. 9846 
Introduced by Representative LORDAN G. SUAN 
AN ACT 
DECLARING GAT JOSE P. RIZAL AS THE NATIONAL HERO 
Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives of the Philippines in 
Congress assembled: 
SECTION 1. Short Title. — This Act shall be known as the “National Hero 
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Act.” 
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SECTION 2. Declaration of Policy. — It is hereby declared that our nation 
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recognize and designate Gat. Jose P. Rizal as the National Hero of the Philippines. 
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This designation is rooted in his exemplary life, which sets a good example for 
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everyone. It inspires strong love for our country, a sense of duty to our 
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community, and a commitment to fairness and freedom. 
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SECTION 3. The National Historical Commission of the Philippines (NHCP) is 
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assigned as the primary agency to carry out this law. The NHCP will create and 
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enforce necessary policies within its authority for the successful implementation 
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of this act. The NHCP, in collaboration with the Department of Public Works and 
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Highways (DPWH) and in coordination with local government units, will install a 
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monument or bust of Jose Rizal in every provincial, city, or municipal plaza across 
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the country. 
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SECTION 4. Appropriations. — The amount necessary for implementing this 
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Act shall be taken from the current budget of the NHCP. Thereafter, the amount 
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necessary for the continued implementation of this Act shall be included in the 
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Annual General Appropriations Act. 
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SECTION 5. Implementing Rules and Regulations. — Within ninety (90) days 
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from the effectivity of this Act, the NHCP and National Heroes Committee, in 
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coordination with The Department of Education (DepEd), Commission on Higher 
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Education (CHED), shall promulgate the necessary rules and regulations for the 
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effective implementation of this Act. 
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SECTION 6. Separability Clause. — Any portion or provisions of this Act that 
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may be declared unconstitutional or invalid shall not have the effect of nullifying 
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other portions or provisions hereof as long as such remaining portions or 
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provisions can still subsist and be given effect in their entirety. 
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SECTION 7. Repealing Clause. — All laws, presidential decrees, executive 
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orders, memoranda, circulars, and other issuances, or parts thereof, which are 
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inconsistent with the Act, are hereby repealed or modified accordingly. 
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SECTION 8. Effectivity Clause. — This Act shall take effect fifteen (15) days 
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after its publication in the Official Gazette, in a newspaper of general circulation, 
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or on a website provided for by law.
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Approved,