Holiday in Bulacan for M.H. del Pilar

MALOLOS, Philippines — It’s a special non-working holiday today in Bulacan in observance of the 173rd birth anniversary of Marcelo H. del Pilar, the father of Philippine journalism.

The holiday was based on Republic Act 11699 signed by former president Rodrigo Duterte on April 13 last year, declaring Aug. 30 of every year as National Press Freedom Day.

A program – themed Marcelo H. del Pilar Liwanag ng Nakaraan, Tanglaw natin sa Kasalukuyan – will be held today at the Marcelo H. del Pilar Shrine in Barangay San Nicolas, Bulakan, hometown of Del Pilar.

Interior and Local Government Secretary Benjamin Abalos Jr. will be the guest speaker at the event.

Abalos will be joined by Bulacan officials led by Gov. Daniel Fernando, officials and members of the National Press Club, Central Luzon Media Association and Bulacan Press Club as well as relatives of Del Pilar.