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Republic of the Philippines = DATE Mareh 12, 2024 [)
HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES = TIME 5:50 pm
Quezon City, Metro Manila SY Tusa
NINETEENTH CONGRESS Ks aleemmemay)
Second Regular Session

Wo ner
INDEX
House Bill No. 10129

Introduced by REPRESENTATIVE MARCELINO C. LIBANAN

EXPLANATORY NOTE

The story of the Philippines is rich with historical events that have shaped the nation’s
ity, 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 Eastem 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 earnest!

MARCE! ~LIBANAN

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

NINETEENTH CONGRESS
Second Regular Session

House Bill No. 10129

Introduced by REPRESENTATIVE MARCELINO C. LIBANAN

AN ACT
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 modern era of globalization, as well as, the onset of the spread of Christianity in
Asia, as a result of the eventual first circumnavigation 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 Government of Eastern Samar and the Municipal Government


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.