NINETEENTH CONGRESS OF THE 
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 
Second Regular Session
SENATE
S. No. 2406
of the
23 AUG 15 P4 '21
RI^CEjVEDB1-
Introduced by Senator Robinhood Padilla
AN ACT
DECLARING THE FIRST DAY OF MARCH OF EVERY YEAR AS THE NATIONAL 
DAY FOR AWARENESS OF RELIGIOUS AND TRADITIONAL GARMENTS AND 
ATTIRE
EXPLANATORY NOTE
The Philippines is a society woven together by various groups comprising 
different beliefs, values, cultures, and ethnolinguistic diversities. Every strand Is 
significant, lending the unique tapestry of our nation's identity and heritage. Among 
the most visually symbolic and profound representations of this diversity are the 
religious and traditional garments and attire worn by our citizens. These garments 
often carry histories that span centuries, stories of faith, struggle, identity, and pride.
The deep-rooted love that Filipinos have for their culture and heritage shines 
brilliantly through their traditional garments. The crafting of traditional Filipino 
garments is an art passed down through generations. In a world that's rapidly 
changing, this love ensures that the stories, traditions, and values embedded in these 
clothes will endure, passing from one generation to the next, forever celebrating the 
indomitable spirit of the Filipino people.
This bill aims to declare the first day of March of every year as the National Day 
for Awareness of Religious and Traditional Garments and Attire to foster a more 
inclusive society that takes pride in its multi-faceted heritage, embracing the richness 
of our diverse identities. This endeavor underscores the significance of understanding


and honoring the narratives and symbolism intricately woven into these garments and 
attires.
In light of the foregoing, the passage of this bill Is earnestly sought.
OBimOOD PADILLA
/ Senator


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NINETEENTH CONGRESS OF THE 
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 
Second Regular Session
23 AUG 15 P4:27
SENATE
RECEIVED B1
s. No. 2406
Introduced by Senator Robinhood Padilla
AN ACT
DECLARING THE FIRST DAY OF MARCH OF EVERY YEAR AS THE NATIONAL 
DAY FOR AWARENESS OF RELIGIOUS AND TRADITIONAL GARMENTS AND 
ATTIRE
Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives of the Philippines in 
Congress assembled:
1 
Section 1. Short Title. — This Act shall be known as the "National Day for
2 
Awareness of Religious and Traditional Garments and Attire".
3 
Sec. 2. Declaration of Policy. — The voluntary exercise of religious profession
4 
and worship, free from coercion or discrimination shall be respected. Everyone shall
5 
have the right to freedom of thought, conscience and religion. This right shall include
6 
freedom to have or to adopt a religion or belief of his/her choice, and freedom, either
7 
individually or in community with others and in public or private, to manifest his/her
8 
religion or belief in worship, observance, practice and teaching.
9 
Sec. 3. To promote diversity, awareness, and tolerance of religious and cultural
10 
beliefs expressed through the wearing of indigenous, religious and traditional clothing,
11 
garments and coverings, March 1st is hereby declared as the "National Day for
12 
Awareness of Religious and Traditional Garments and Attire".
13 
Sec. 4. Nothing herein shall be construed as requiring the wearing 
or non-
14 
wearing of a particular attire, garment or clothing.
15 
Sec. 5. This Act shall take effect fifteen (15) days after Its complete publication
16 
in the Official Gazette or in a newspaper of general circulation.
Approved,
1