Republic of the Philippines
HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES
Quezon City, Metro Manila

TWENTIETH CONGRESS
First Regular Session

House Bill No, 122

Introduced by HONORABLE CHRISTOPHER SHEEN P. GONZALES
HONORABLE MARCELINO C. LIBANAN

EXPLANATORY NOTE

The story of the Philippines is rich with historical events that have shaped
the nation's identity, culture, and beliefs. One pivotal moment in this storied
history is the arrival of Ferdinand Magellan in the Philippines, specifically his
landing on the island of Homonhon in the province of Eastern Samar on March
17, 1521 This event not only paves the way for the eventual circumnavigation of
the world but also sets the stage for the introduction of Christianity to all of Asia,
a faith that would become a comerstone of Filipino identity.

Despite its significance, this historic event has not been formally
recognized with a public holiday in the region where it took place. The proposed
measure, known as the "Homonhon Landing Day Act," seeks to rectify this
oversight by declaring March 17 of every year as a special non-working holiday
in the province of Eastern Samar. This act aims to honor the historical importance
of Magellan's landing, not only to the local community of Eastern Samar but to
the nation as a whole.

The observance of Homonhon Landing Day will provide an opportunity
for reflection on the rich cultural heritage of the Philippines and the enduring
impact of Christianity in the country. It will also serve as a platform for
educational activities that can foster a deeper understanding among Filipinos,
especially the youth, about this pivotal moment in our nation's history. By
commemorating this day, we are not only paying homage to our past but also
reinforcing our collective identity and the values that bind us as a people.

Furthermore, this special non-working holiday will contribute to the local
economy and tourism of Eastern Samar, drawing attention to its historical sites
and natural beauty. It will encourage Filipinos from other regions and tourists to
visit, thereby promoting cultural exchange and understanding.


In light of the foregoing, the approval of this bill is earnestly sought. It is a
step towards recognizing and celebrating our historical heritage, ensuring that
future generations understand and appreciate the significant events that have
shaped our nation.

In view of the foregoing, immediate approval of this bill is earnestly sought.

MARCE  LIBANAN
Representative
Lone District of Eastern Samar 4Ps Partylist



Republic of the Philippines
HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES
Quezon City, Metro Manila

TWENTIETH CONGRESS
First Regular Session

House Bill nol22

Introduced by HONORABLE CHRISTOPHER SHEEN P. GONZALES
HONORABLE MARCELINO C. LIBANAN

ANACT
DECLARING MARCH 17 OF EVERY YEAR AS "HOMONHON LANDING DAY", A
SPECIAL NON-WORKING HOLIDAY IN THE PROVINCE OF EASTERN SAMAR,
IN COMMEMORATION OF FERDINAND MAGELLAN'S LANDING IN
HOMONHON.

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 "Homonhon Landing Day Act."

Section 2. Declaration of Policy. — It is hereby recognized that the actual landing of Ferdinand
Magellan in Homonhon on March 17, 1521, marks a significant historical event. It marked the
beginning of the modem era of globalization, as well as, the onset of the spread of Christianity
in Asia, as a result of the eventual first circummnavigation of the world. The State acknowledges
the importance of commemorating this day to honor the cultural and historical heritage of the
Filipino people, particularly in the province of Eastern Samar.

Section 3. Declaration of March 17 as a Special Non-Working Holiday in Eastern Samar.
= March 17 of every year is hereby declared as "Homonhon Landing Day", a special non-
working holiday in the province of Eastern Samar, to commemorate the historic landing of
Ferdinand Magellan in Homonhon.

Section 4. Observance. ~ The Provincial Government of Eastern Samar, in coordination with
the National Historical Commission of the Philippines (NHCP), Department of Education
(DepEd), Commission on Higher Education (CHED), and other relevant agencies and local
government units, shall lead the organization and implementation of various activities and
programs for this day. Activities may include historical re-enactments, educational programs,
cultural exhibits, and other relevant events that promote the historical significance of the
Homonhon landing.

Section 5. Funding. - The necessary funds for the implementation of this Act shall be sourced
from the budget of the Provincial Govemment of Eastem Samar and the Municipal
Government of Guiuan, Easter Samar, subject to the usual goverment accounting and
auditing rules and regulations.


of Guiuan, Eastern Samar, subject to the usual government accounting and auditing rules and
regulations.

Section 6. Separability Clause. — If any provision of this Act is declared invalid or
unconstitutional, the other provisions not affected shall remain in force and effect.

Section 7. Repealing Clause. ~ All laws, decrees, orders, rules and regulations, or parts thereof
inconsistent with the provisions of this Act are hereby repealed, amended, or modified
accordingly.

Section 8, Effectivity. — This Act shall take effect fifteen (15) days after its publication in the
Official Gazette or in a newspaper of general circulation in the Philippines.

Approved.