Manuel Quezon Day
August 19, Tuesday
- It is typically declared a special non-working holiday in Quezon City and in the provinces of Quezon and Aurora. It is not a nationwide holiday.
Who was Manuel L. Quezon?
- First president of the Commonwealth of the Philippines (1935–1944).
- Known as the “Father of the National Language” for championing a unifying national language.
- Advanced social justice, women’s suffrage, civil service and government reforms, and preparations for full independence.
Why August 19?
- It is Quezon’s birthday. He was born in Baler, then part of Tayabas province (the province was later renamed Quezon in his honor).
Holiday status and coverage
- Observed on August 19 each year.
- Usually made official by annual presidential proclamations and local ordinances for Quezon City, Quezon Province, and Aurora.
- Government offices, schools, and many businesses in those areas may close or operate on special schedules; elsewhere in the Philippines it is a regular working day.
Common observances and activities
- Wreath-laying and commemorative rites at the Quezon Memorial Shrine (Quezon Memorial Circle, Quezon City), in Lucena City (Quezon Province), and in Baler (Aurora).
- Civic programs, historical exhibits, and cultural performances.
- Language-focused events connected to Buwan ng Wikang Pambansa (National Language Month), which is celebrated throughout August.
Connections to language month
- August’s National Language Month is closely associated with Quezon’s legacy of establishing and promoting a national language; many schools and institutions schedule contests, lectures, and cultural activities around his day.
Related local festivities
- In Quezon Province, the Niyogyugan Festival (a coconut and agriculture-themed celebration) is often held in August and may culminate near August 19.
Practical tips
- Check for the year’s presidential proclamation and local government advisories to confirm which areas have a special non-working day.
- Expect possible traffic rerouting and event-related closures near major ceremony sites, especially around Quezon Memorial Circle, Lucena, and Baler.
Did you know?
- The former province of Tayabas was renamed Quezon Province in honor of Manuel L. Quezon.
- Quezon City, named after him, also marks August 19 with its own local holiday and ceremonies.