Bonifacio Day reminds us to appreciate the valor of our heroes and their origin stories. Without them, the independence we so greatly enjoy—and sometimes take for granted—would remain merely an idea known only to a few.
Had November 30, 2024, occurred during the Arroyo administration, especially after the former president signed Republic Act 9492, or the Holiday Economics Law, Bonifacio Day would have been moved to the nearest Monday.
It would have been purely economical since long weekends are known to boost local tourism by increasing domestic flights to tourist hotspots.
However, Philstar. com reported that Bonifacio Day will remain on November 30, amidst calls to move it to Friday, November 29.
Despite its potential to revive economic fervor, Bonifacio Day should be celebrated for what it truly represents: the birth of a hero and the Father of the Philippine Revolution, Andres Bonifacio.
Although the concept of holiday economics is beneficial to a certain degree, it somewhat besmirches a historical sacred ground. It is perhaps best to reflect on the significance of November 30 for our national identity and ethos, as it is no longer indelibly etched in the minds of the current generation.
To many of today’s “cool” kids, the name “Bonifacio” likely only matters when it’s connected to Global City or High Street: a sad travesty if you think about it. That long strip of retail therapy in the contested heart of Taguig wouldn’t have been built in the first place had there been no revolution led by the OG Bonifacio.
The erasure of heroism in a country that has greatly benefited from it is a colossal failure. To resuscitate our near-drowning national heritage, each of us must be capable of going against the tide with resolute force and resisting the deluge of forgetfulness and apathy that threatens to wash away our history.
Bonifacio Day reminds us to appreciate the valor of our heroes and their origin stories. Without them, the independence we so greatly enjoy—and sometimes take for granted—would remain merely an idea known only to a few.
