Special non-working holiday tomorrow

CEBU, Philippines -A special non-working holiday will be observed in Cebu City and the province tomorrow to commemorate the 133rd birth anniversary of Sergio Osmeña.

Republic Act No. 06953 declared September 9 as holiday to give honor to Osmeña, known as the “Great Old Man.” It was signed by former President Corazon Aquino on May 22, 1990.

Department of Labor and Employment-7 director Exequiel Sarcauga said workers in the private sector who report to work tomorrow are entitled to an additional 30 percent in their basic salaries.

“But it’s a no work, no pay. If mo-work, kana maoy maka-entitle sa additional 30 percent,” Sarcauga said.

In commemoration of Osmeña’s death, a Holy Mass and flower offering will be held at his marker at Lapu-Lapu Street corner Osmeña Boulevard.

Osmeña, dubbed as the first Filipino statesman, was born on September 9, 1878. He became acting governor of Cebu, a provincial fiscal, provincial governor, member of the First Philippine Assembly and Speaker of the House at the age of 29.

He spent his 42 years in public service and became one of the most famous politicians in the country during the World War II.

He became acting president in 1943 and later succeeded the presidency when President Manuel Quezon died in New York during exile.

Osmeña died on October 19, 1961 at the age of 83. — (FREEMAN)