Filipino National Heroes Recognition Program

Honouring Filipino National Heroes

• On March 28, 1983, President Fidel V. Ramos issued Executive Order No. 75, creating the National Heroes Committee under the Office of the President.
• The Committee was tasked to identify, assess, and suggest national personalities who made a significant impact on Philippine history.

Criteria for National Heroes

• The National Heroes Committee adopted criteria for national heroes, including:
  • Heroes who have a concept of nation and aspire and struggle for the nation's freedom.
  • Heroes who define and contribute to a system or life of freedom and order for a nation.
  • Heroes who contribute to the quality of life and destiny of a nation.

Recognition of National Heroes

• Despite the establishment of the National Heroes Committee, no law or executive order was issued to officially proclaim a Filipino historical icon as a national hero.
• Jose Rizal, despite his enormous contribution to Philippine history, was not clearly proclaimed a National Hero.
• There were laws enacted to honour significant historical persons and their heroic acts that moulded history.

Recognition of Rizal and Bonifacio

• Jose Rizal's position in Philippine History is a tribute to the continued respect and acclamation of the people in recognition of his contribution to significant social transformations in the country.
• Andres Bonifacio also acquired a spotlight in heroism, recognized as a national hero, and his day of birth was made a national holiday.
• Both Rizal and Bonifacio were great men who contributed to the acquisition of Philippine independence from the Spanish regime and abuses.