Ninoy Aquino’s death must be celebrated on the day of his assassination which falls on August 21. 

No holiday economics or domestic tourism boost can hold a candle to Ninoy’s heroism.

The dates of national memorials must not be changed to dilute its significance and accommodate revisionism. 

It is in the same manner that we cannot not change the dates of Christmas Day on December 25, New Year’s Day on January 1, the culmination of the 4-day EDSA revolution on February 25,  Labor Day on May 1 and the Feast of the Immaculate Conception on December 8.

According to RA No. 9492 or “An Act Rationalizing the Celebration of National Holidays":

“b) Nationwide Special Holidays:

“Ninoy Aquino Day ----- Monday nearest August 21 …

c) In the event the holiday falls on a Wednesday, the holiday will be observed on the Monday of the week. If the holiday falls on a Sunday, the holiday will be observed on the Monday that follows:

“Provided, That for movable holidays, the President shall issue a proclamation, at least six months prior to the holiday concerned, the specific date that shall be declared as a nonworking day”.

The change of date in Ninoy Aquino’s death celebration this year is obviously in violation of the law as it should have been proclaimed by the President six (6) months ago.

EDCEL C. LAGMAN